The chorus offers Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trangendered people an opportunity to meet and indulge their passion for singing in a relaxed and friendly environment. Originally the Reading Gay Men's Chorus, which formed in June 2003, Leabians were invited to join the chorus for a series of Christmas Carol parties in December 2003. This was such a success that it was decided to make the arrangement permanent, and the Reading Gay Men's Chorus became simply the Reading Gay Chorus.

We sing songs from shows, jazz, the blues and anything else that seems like fun to do. The chorus Musical Director Anthony Witt, is one of Berkshire's leading singing and vocal coaches and rehearsals include exercises and 'vocal wisdom' from him which members have found to be very useful (and fun).

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Trangendered people are invited to join the chorus following our formal debut concert in May 2004. The only requirement is that you are a Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or Trangendered and that you want to sing and have fun. There are no auditions and you do not have to be an experienced singer or be able to read music - you just need to have the desire to sing with other gay guys and gals.

Just come along to one of our rehearsals and have a go. These are held every Sunday afternoon from 4:00 - 6.0pm (Please note the new time), at the South Street Arts Centre, 21 South Street, Reading, RG1 4QU - near the town centre. You don't have to live in Reading to join the chorus. If you would like to know more before you decide to come along, then phone us for a chat on 07749 949485.

Rehearsing every Sunday may seem like an onerous commitment. However, Chorus members are not expected to attend each and every rehearsal, although some continuity is important - especially in the run up to a performance.

Singing is thirsty work and after rehearsals those that wish gather to share a drink or two at a gay friendly pub. The Chorus offers a rare chance to socialise with a diverse mix of gay men and women of all ages and backgrounds.

The Chorus also elects a Management Committee to run the show. The Committee meets approximately monthly to plan and organise a programme of perfomances, and to oversee Chorus business such as publicity, membership, and finance.

Members of RGC pay a weekly subscription to cover costs of premises hire for rehearsals, refreshments, professional fees, publicity and other sundry costs. However, we also need to raise a certain level of funds to ensure that membership is affordable to all. If you are interested in sponsoring RGC then please contact us - all sponsors will be acknowledged in our publicity. RGC is in the process of registering as a charity. Supporters who can offer other forms of assistance are also welcome - e.g: with running our website, or helping advertise the Chorus. Friends and supporters are welcome to visit and sit in on rehearsals.

Twice a year, in Summer and around Christmas we present a formal concert. In addition we perform at other events, some informal others more formal. Examples of these are performances at Wedding receptions, at a Birthday party for a Reading MP and at a conference organised by the Berkshire Older Lesbian and Gay Forum. We also perfomed at the Oxford University LGBT Christmas Ball event in 2005. However, there is no requirement for members to perform in public if they prefer not to.