A choir based in Rye is beginning to make quite a name for itself. Combining powerful vocals with vibrant music, the Wall of Sound Singing Ensemble presents a repertoire ranging from gospel to klezmer (Jewish jazz) to Irish folk and contemporary classical.
It is planning a series of concerts over St Patrick’s weekend (March 14-16), the first at The Queen’s Head Inn, Landgate, Rye (8.30pm on March 14), at St Thomas the Martyr Church, Winchelsea (7pm on March 15) and finally at St Mary’s Church, Rye (2.45pm on March 16). All programmes will feature Irish-based choir pieces, ranging from traditional folk to contemporary Irish pop and rock songs.
The musical director, singing coach Sandra Scott – who trained at the Royal Academy of Music and has sung at the Royal Albert Hall and with Spanish tenor Placido Domingo – formed the choir two years ago after being bowled over by an informal performance by some of her students. Since then, it has grown in size and stature, welcoming new members of all ages and experience. The choir performs on a regular basis in such characterful local venues as candlelit medieval churches on Romney Marsh, St Mary’s in Rye and Smallhythe Place, Small Hythe, near Tenterden and at outdoor music festivals. It has even made a flashmob appearance for shoppers on a busy Saturday afternoon in Rye.
“Anyone wanting to join need not worry about having experience or being able to read music,” Scott said. “Far more important is a sense of humour and a sense of camaraderie. Every new member is offered a free taster session.” As well as meeting weekly to rehearse at The Hub in Market Road, Rye, the choir organises social events, such as walking/singing trips across Romney Marsh to the isolated medieval churches or evenings playing board games in a Rye club.
To join the choir (or for private singing tuition) call 07533 207003 or email Sandra Scott