IF YOU’RE thinking of taking up a new hobby in 2011 but aren’t sure what to do, a choir may have the answer.

Hawarden Singers are appealing for new voices to join their choir.

The group, founded in 1954, is looking to recruit people of all ages who enjoy singing.

Choir member Julia Botterell said: “The more the merrier. A lot of the people who join the group are also committed to other choirs so we’re looking for people who would like to join the choir on a more permanent basis.

“We’re looking for tenors and bases, but tenors particularly. We only have two tenors at the moment. If one’s away we’re in trouble as you want a good blend of voices to keep the standard up.”

The choir currently has about 35 members, some of whom have been members for 40 years.

“The age range at the moment is from people in their late 30s through to people in their 60s but all ages are welcome to join,” said Julia.

“We’re hoping younger voices will join and bring strength to the choir.”

The Hawarden Singers perform mainly choral music by composers such as Bach, Rachmaninoff and Mozart.

The group also sing a selection of modern music by artists such as Paul McCartney and even perform the occasional TV theme tune.

As well as singing for weddings and events, the choir is keen to raise money for charity.

“We’ve done a lot of charity concerts this year which have been very successful,” said Julia.

In the run up to Christmas the choir performed a concert at the Broughton Community Centre and sang in the Minstrel’s Gallery at Mostyn Hall raising a total of £1000 each for St Kentigerns Hospice St Asaph and for the NSPCC.

Although based in Flintshire the choir enjoy travelling to perform in other areas and this April will take a trip to Troon in Scotland.

Julia said: “We like to keep our national and international links going as singing together brings people together.”

The Hawarden Singers are led by professionally trained musical director Malcom Williams and rehearse every week at the Hawarden Institute.

After a well-earned Christmas break the choir will start weekly rehearsals again on Tuesday January 4 at 7.30 pm in Hawarden Institute.

Anybody interested in joining the choir should contact secretary Harold Taylor on 01244 534869/520414.

For more information go to www.hawardensingers.com.