FAQs
what sort of choir is sing out sutton?
Sing out Sutton runs community wellbeing singing in Sutton. Our vision is that everyone who joins us has a great time and feels better for being part of our groups.
We use singing to support mental wellbeing, physical wellbeing and social connection, and we’re known for our energy, enthusiasm and the joy we bring to telling stories through music. No experience is needed — just a willingness to give singing a go.
when and where do you meet?
Sing out Sutton runs two Thursday wellbeing choirs in Sutton, both at the same venue and following the same format. The only difference is the time of day.
Thursdays, either 2-3.30pm or 5.30-7pm, Chiltern Church, Chiltern Road, Sutton, SM2 5QY. Both sessions start with 30 minutes of staggered arrival where we serve teas and coffees, then we sing for an hour.
Our singing for breathing group meets on Tuesdays, 1.30-3pm, Mallinson Room, Wallington Library, SM6 0HY. From 1.30-2pm we have staggered arrival with teas and coffees, then we sing from 2-3pm. This group is specifically designed for people living with respiratory conditions, or interested in improving their breathing through singing.
All our groups run up to 50 weeks per year. 100% attendance is not compulsory – we all have busy lives! But we encourage you to attend as regularly as you can so you feel connected and up to date.
If you'd like to come along to see what we do, just get in touch.
What sort of songs will we learn?
We sing a wide range of well-known, uplifting songs, from Elvis to ABBA and beyond. Choir members are encouraged to suggest songs, and we love music that tells a great story and connects us as a group.
what are rehearsals like?
Fun, supportive, uplifting and welcoming!
Each session begins with time to chat over a cup of tea, followed by singing that’s the right balance of enjoyment and gentle challenge.
Songs are taught by ear using call and response, so there’s no sheet music and no pressure — just listening, trying things out and building confidence together.
how much does Sing out Sutton cost to join?
All our groups are completely free to join, because we believe cost shouldn’t stop anyone from singing.
As a charity, we rely on donations from our members and supporters to keep things running. If you’re able to contribute in any way, it helps us continue to grow and share the joy of singing with as many people as possible.
will I have to audition at any point?
No — absolutely not. We believe everyone can sing.
Many of our members were nervous when they first joined, and a supportive, non-judgemental environment is central to everything we do.
what part should I sing?
We sing in harmony and often split into three sections: Soprano, Alto and Bass.
If you're new to singing in harmony, here's our general rule of thumb:
- Soprano (the highest part) is usually the easiest to follow because it sits at the top of the harmony, making it most obvious to your ear. It does take a bit more physical effort, but it's a great place to start if you're new to singing.
- Alto sits closer to your speaking voice, so requires less physical effort but much more concentration needed to hold your harmony as the notes are not as immediately obvious.
- Bass provides the foundation of the harmony and is where all our men sing.
It’s entirely up to you which part you sing, and many newcomers try different sections in their first few weeks to see what suits their voice best. There’s a common myth that Soprano is the hardest part because it’s higher, and many people initially feel nervous about singing high notes. But the truth is, higher notes are often easier to produce than lower ones, as they require less vocal cord tension and air pressure. What’s actually most challenging is holding a harmony line confidently, which is why Alto can sometimes feel trickier than Soprano.
The good news? There’s no wrong choice, and you’re always welcome to switch parts as you find what feels best for you!
can i bring a friend?
Yes - the more, the merrier. Just let us know in advance, so we have a welcome pack ready for when they arrive.
how often will we perform in public - do I have to?
The Thursday choirs usually perform around once a month, depending on local events and opportunities.
Performing is always optional. If you’d rather not sing in public, there are plenty of other ways to be involved, including helping behind the scenes.
The Singing for Breathing group meets purely for the fun of it, though you will have an option to 'showcase' what you've been working on every once in a while.
why do you have a separate singing for breathing group?
Singing has proven benefits for people with respiratory conditions.
Our Singing for Breathing group is run in partnership with Sutton Health and Care and Sutton Primary Care Networks, and led by a specialist practitioner. Sessions are carefully designed to support breathing, confidence and vocal technique in a safe, supportive way.
this all sounds great - where do i sign up?
If you'd like to come and try us out, just pop us a message and Vicki, our founder, will be in touch within 2-5 working days.