Men who sing and men who’ve always wanted to give it a try – but haven’t ever quite plucked up the courage – are being given the perfect opportunity to do so in January 2025, at The Civic in Slaithwaite.
Let All Men Sing! is a community choir project, run by Colne Valley Male Voice Choir.
Now in its third year, the project’s popularity continues to grow, and registrations are now open for any men wanting to take part. The premise is simple – men from all backgrounds, with any level of musical ability (including none at all) sign-up for eight rehearsals to give singing together a try.
The project is friendly, inclusive and relaxed – starting with the basics of singing, and slowly increasing in challenge as confidence builds. Singers aren’t asked to audition or sing by themselves.
“We wanted to create a welcoming, friendly atmosphere,” said Thom Meredith, who – along with accompanist Chris Pulleyn – leads the sessions.
“Everyone has a voice but not everyone is confident enough to walk into a regular choir rehearsal. It can be quite intimidating.”
Making Let All Men Sing! accessible to all was a really important objective. Thom (above) said: “The idea was to create a space where everyone felt comfortable and could find their own level, together.
“We begin with things like breathing and posture, then try some vocal warm-ups, before applying these skills to the songs. By the end of the first rehearsal, people are blown away by the sound they’ve made!”
In 2023, nearly 40 singers signed up to take part. When the course ran again in 2024, another group of nearly 40 – a mix of new and returning singers – signed up.
“The success has been phenomenal – way beyond what we imagined,” said Kieran Chadha, one of the team that supports the project. “People like the fact it’s a short-term commitment – only eight weeks, and the rehearsals are short too – just 90 minutes each week. It’s manageable for people that are busy.”
Thom agrees, and mentions how participants also appreciate the focus on creating a quality sound.
“Rehearsals are relaxed but also challenging, finding the right way to push the group as their confidence grows – working on tone, blend and singing in harmony. Week after week, we’re impressed by how well the singers respond.”
The project aims to be enjoyable as well as a challenge. Singers from different communities, age groups and cultures get the opportunity to meet and mingle.
“There’s chance for a cuppa after each rehearsal, which helps people share their experience, chat about the music, and get to know their fellow singers,” said Kieran. “Singing brings a really great sense of camaraderie – so it’s also a nice way to get to know new people in the area.”
After eight weeks, the project builds to a spectacle finale with a Celebratory Concert held in St James’ Church in Slaithwaite. It’s a chance for singers to showcase their newfound skills and share their achievement with friends, family and supporters.
“We invite Colne Valley Male Voice Choir and Colne Valley Boys choir to perform at the finale concert, which makes it a spectacular event – with over 100 singers on stage,” said Thom.
“But it’s the Let All Men Sing! participants that are the stars of the show – and it’s great to see the sense of pride in what they’ve achieved.”
Registrations are now open for Let All Men Sing! 2025, which kicks-off on Thursday January 16. There’s a one-off registration fee of £20 to take part, and any men interested can find all the details they need at www.letallmensing.co.uk
It’s the perfect way to brighten up those gloomy winter evenings and get 2025 off to an inspirational start!
The Let All Men Sing! Celebration Concert takes place on Sunday March 16 at 2.30pm. Tickets are £5 for adults and everyone is welcome.
