Name: Clare, Soprano

Job: Senior Accountant
 

How long have you been a member of The Nottingham Harmonic Choir?

I was a member from 2005/6 to 2012/13 and then had a break to grow our family by adoption. 
 

What drew you towards joining?

I love singing, and I love singing in a choir.  Originally, I came along when one of our former conductors heard me sing at the Roman Catholic Cathedral in Nottingham and asked "why aren't you in my choir!"  I passed the audition and loved every concert I sang in.  I have made great friends singing with the Harmonic and I am still in touch with some who have since left!
 

What do you love most about singing with the choir?

Singing is an EXCELLENT way of getting cortisol out of the body - and with my boys (who both have significant special needs), caring for my elderly mother and my full time job, I have plenty of stress!  After rehearsal, I feel energised.  It is nice to do something that is outside of my day to day and I love to things that challenge me.  Plus the people are all lovely! 
 

What benefits do you get from being a member?

I feel relaxed, re-energised and accomplished when I learn a tricky corner of a piece and after the actual concert.  Singing is amazing for mental health as well as relaxing the body.  It should be offered on prescription!
 

How was your recent experience of rejoining?

Everyone has been so welcoming to me after coming back from a gap of 12 years.  There are still people I remember from my first time, and all of the people involved in getting people "on the books" have been organised and delightful.  I was VERY nervous for the audition, but Richard was really kind, and I was thrilled to pass. 
 

What advice would you give to anyone thinking about joining us?

Oh do it!  It is a wonderful group of people and very supportive. 
 

What is your favourite piece of classical/choral music?

I do love Messiah, and I have a soft spot for Dream of Gerontius too.