A new group has launched for people who can’t sing but love it anyway.

Sittingbourne’s Tuneless Choir is looking for the kind of people who enjoy belting out a song in the shower but lack the ability, practice or confidence to perform in public.

They sing a mixture of popular songs from throughout the decades, without caring if all the right notes are in the right order. They also have themed nights.

Choir leader and manager Sheena Wickenden said: “The tuneless experience is unique. We sing purely for the pleasure of it, with no pressure or expectation to improve, we simply aim for everyone to leave us feeling energised and uplifted.

“There are many who have been told by friends and family, and even music teachers, that they can’t sing.

“Everybody with a voice can sing but they may not always hit the right note at the right time!”

The 48-year-old, who lives in Maidstone, added: “Research tells us that singing in groups brings physical, emotional and social benefits and so we believe everyone has a right to sing whatever their voice.

“Singing is fun, but it doesn’t have to be perfect.

“At times like these, although getting better, this is a fantastic opportunity for people to make friends and sing their hearts out, despite the fact they might sound like an alley cat.”

Sheena, who works full time as a construction PA, already runs two of the groups in Kent; Maidstone Tuneless Choir started in July 2016 and Tonbridge Tuneless Choir began in February 2019.

She said: “It all started in Nottingham in 2016 and the lady who started it got on the BBC’s One Show. I saw her on there and thought it was a fantastic idea – hence Maidstone Tuneless Choir was born.”

Sittingbourne Tuneless Choir will launch on Thursday, November 11.

The session will be held at Tunstall C of E Primary School in Tunstall Road, Tunstall, near Sittingbourne.

On launch night, doors will open at 7.15pm with singing starting at 7.45pm.

Registration with the choir and the first session will cost £10, which includes a glass of fizz and cake.

Ongoing choir sessions will be held fortnightly from 7.45pm to 9pm.

A ‘pay as you go’ price will be £8 per session, but it will be possible to book terms in advance at the equivalent of £6 per session.

Sheena said: “Whether it’s singing you’re after, or the opportunity to meet new like-minded friends in the local area, we’d love to meet you.”

For more or to book a ticket for the launch, click here or contact Sheena by emailing sittingbourne@tunelesschoir.com or calling 07595 639145.

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