About the Thanet Festival Choir

About us

Thanet Festival Choir was founded (as Margate Festival Choir) in 1946 by George Vesey, at the time organist and choirmaster of the Margate Congregational Church. Now in its 65th year, the choir continues to go from strength to strength with every-increasing membership and audience numbers. We give at least four concerts each year-usually oratorios or other religious works in the spring and autumn, a carol concert in December and lighter works in the summer. We are grateful to the Friends of the Choir without whose support we would be unable to maintain this schedule.

As a choir we aim to give performances of the highest quality. Clifford, our Music Director, works us hard but rehearsals are always fun and we learn in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. Our membership is drawn from a wide range of musical abilities. Some of us have many years experience of singing in choirs whereas others are relatively new to the joys and challenges of choral singing. What is important is a desire to learn about singing and music, a commitment to our Wednesday evening rehearsals, a willingness to do some practice at home and, above, all, a genuine enjoyment of singing. If you would like to share the joy of singing then why not come and join us? Just remember to bring a pencil!

There are no auditions for membership but the Music Director will carry out informal vocal assessments from time to time and may offer individual support where necessary.

The Annual Subscription is currently (2010/2011) £70 and may be paid in two instalments, due in September and January. Membership is free to students in full-time education and in cases of exceptional hardship a reduced subscription may be negotiated through the Treasurer.

The Thanet Festival Choir at rehearsal

The choir is affiliated to Making Music (The National Federation of Music Societies)
Registered Charity No 1036117

Last Updated: 01/03/2011