What do we love most about being in a choir? Concerts are magical, of course, and it’s always great to hear a recording of your choir’s sound. But most people will say that rehearsal is the best thing about their choir experience – it’s what they come back for again and again, after all.
Those few hours spent together, shaping sound and sharing laughs, are where the real magic happens. But rehearsals aren’t just about learning notes; they’re about listening, adapting, and growing as part of something larger.
Whether you’re a seasoned chorister or joining a community choir for the first time, a few simple habits can help you make the most of rehearsal time – and enjoy it even more.
Arrive ready – physically and mentally
Arriving early gives you a moment to settle in, greet your section, and breathe before singing begins. A calm start makes all the difference.
Try this before rehearsal:
- Do a gentle vocal warm-up before heading over.
- Review your music (even five minutes of glancing over tricky passages helps).
- Take a few deep breaths to centre yourself.
It’s always appreciated when singers arrive familiar with the week’s repertoire. Even if life gets in the way, skimming your part helps you keep pace.
That being said, don’t stress if you’re not note-perfect. Rehearsals are about learning together. Be open to direction, and to unlearning habits when the conductor suggests a new phrasing or rhythm.
If you’ve had a long day, give yourself permission to let it go at the rehearsal door. Choir should feel like a reset, not another item on your to-do list.
Listen as much as you sing
Choir singing is about balance. Listening is as important as producing sound.
- Tune in to the voices around you.
- Notice how your part fits within the harmony.
- Adjust your volume and tone accordingly.
Sometimes, less is more. The collective blend of the ensemble matters more than any one voice. Rehearsal is the art of learning how to listen.
Engage with the community
One of the joys of choir life is the people you meet. Those short conversations before and after rehearsal help build trust and connection – and that unity shows up in the sound.
Say hello to someone new, offer a pencil to your neighbour, or compliment your section on a tricky passage. Small moments of camaraderie make a big difference.
Rehearsal Is the Reward
Concerts may be the goal, but rehearsals are where you grow. Each week’s progress – the tricky harmony that finally locks in, the unexpected beauty of a chord resolving just right – is worth celebrating.
Don’t worry about perfection. Focus on connection, consistency, and joy. After all, every great performance starts in a rehearsal room.
Want to hear the results of all of Vivamus’ rehearsals? Come to our next concert.
Written by Swéta Rana.