Hampshire choir saved from closure by musical group

Winchester Sings, which was led for many years by local musician Nigel, faced an uncertain future earlier this year.

Encore Choirs, which already runs successful groups in other towns, stepped in to save the group.

This autumn, Winchester Sings will formally become Encore Choirs (Winchester), with weekly rehearsals during term time taking place on Thursday evenings from 7.15pm to 9.15pm at Vineyard Church, Winchester.

Members of the public are welcome to come along and try it out, without auditions or the requirement to read music.

Joshua Robinson, who leads all of the Encore Choirs, believes strongly in the power of song to bring people together.

He said: "Singing in a group lifts the spirit like nothing else.

Encore's groups around the area(Image: Joshua Robinson)

"Encore is about community, connection, and the simple joy of making music together.

"It felt like a perfect match to work with such a vibrant group."

Encore Choirs is all about making singing "accessible, uplifting, and fun."

Mr Robinson said: "Sessions are relaxed and welcoming, with plenty of laughter, cups of tea, and even the odd slice of cake.

"For those who do want to take to the stage, there are ample performance opportunities throughout the year."

As the choir welcomes the Winchester singers into the fold, Encore Choirs also extends its warmest wishes to Nigel and his wife Jo as they embark on their next chapter.

The Encore team is keen to keep in touch and carry forward the sense of family and togetherness that Winchester Sings built over many years.

For anyone interested in joining the new Encore Choirs (Winchester), enquiries can be made via email, phone call, or through the website: https://encorechoirs.co.uk/