by Rebecca Hannant
A choir that was originally formed in Hornsea is seeking new male singers as part of ongoing efforts to expand.
In recent years, the Hot Gospel choir, led by Helen Garnett, has gone from strength to strength, performing at prestigious events across the UK such as the Bradford Literature Festival.
They have also been finalists in the BBC Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year competition twice.
Helen said: “The gospel scene is something that is growing across Europe. It is really uplifting and it’s good for your soul. One of the overriding comments that we get from a lot of our members is it’s kind of life-changing.”
She was keen to stress that while the bar has been set high, the choir is open to people of all ages and abilities.
However, she added they had faced some difficulties in recruiting men.
The choir has about 30 members, including five men. Additionally, the choir also uses a professional band whose members are all men.
In a bid to recruit more men, Helen is looking into more diverse events such as at pubs and bars, open mic nights, festivals and more.
Helen added: “It all started in Hornsea around 20 years ago, so there’s a group of gents who we would love to encourage back.”
She said that one of the main issues the choir had in recruiting new members was often related to the fact that people think choirs are boring and faith-based.
However, she said their repertoire did not exclusively comprise faith music, and it often featured uplifting songs by artists of all genres.
Meanwhile, the choir can provide a range of opportunities beyond singing and performing, such as building relationships and improving mental health.
Helen added: “We want to get people through the door, really, to see what we’re all about. It can be so exhilarating and so much fun. And we’ve got some fantastic opportunities opening up to us as a choir.
“It’s about the inclusivity, the unity and the family feel of being involved in something that’s such good fun.
“Forget everything you think you know about singing in a choir, because unless you’ve been in something like this before, you can’t possibly know how amazing it is.
“One of the things we say to the guys is open your mind and your heart, and, you never know, it might be one of the best things you’ll ever do in your life.
“Just come along and have a fantastic time and come with an open mind, and just enjoy an evening and see if it’s for you, more than anything else.”
The choir is looking for members of all ages. No previous experience is needed. All that is required is a good ear and a passion for singing.
The choir rehearses at St Nicholas Church in Hessle High Road, Hull, every two weeks.
For more information on how to join, visit hotgospel.co.uk.