Member Information
The Reading Community Singers is a vibrant, non-audition community chorus of 70+ members based in Reading, MA. We welcome anyone 18+ who can match pitch, sing a tune, and commit to attending rehearsals. We’d love to have you join our musical family!
Rehearsals
- When: Tuesdays, 7:30–9:30pm (check-in starts at 7:00pm)
- Where: Sanctuary at Old South Methodist Church, Reading, MA
- Dress: Casual and comfortable — please avoid strong perfumes or cologne out of consideration for fellow singers.
- Try us free! You’re welcome to attend your first 3 rehearsals before registering — no commitment needed.
- Members are allowed to miss up to 3 rehearsals per season. If you need to miss more, the Director must approve your continued participation.
- Occasionally, rehearsals may be rescheduled due to circumstances like inclement weather. We’ll communicate any changes as early as possible and try to find a time that works for most members.
Registration
- Fee: $100 per session
- Two sessions per year:
- Holiday: Late August through mid-December
- Spring: Late January through mid-May
- RCS is a community-based non-profit. Registration fees help cover the cost of music, our artistic director, accompanist, and band members.
- You must register before attending your 4th rehearsal.
Music
- Music folders are handed out when you arrive at rehearsal.
- Once registered, you’re welcome to take your music home to practice.
- Unregistered members must return music at the end of each rehearsal.
- Before concerts, binders will be distributed to hold your music. Both binders and music are returned after the final concert.
- Please make any notes in pencil only so they can be easily erased.
Performances
RCS performs two major concerts each season — one at Reading Memorial High School and one at either Brooksby Village in Peabody or the Residence at Pearl Street in Reading. We also participate in beloved community events like the Reading Holiday Tree Lighting and the Reading Menorah Lighting. Members are expected to attend all rehearsals and performances. Details about concert attire will be shared as the dates approach.
Ticket Sales
- Each member is expected to sell at least 4 ticketsper season — ticket sales are an important part of keeping RCS running!
- Tickets typically go on sale about 6 weeks before the show.
- You can purchase tickets at rehearsal with cash or check, or online via this website using a credit card.
Stay Connected
- Weekly Emails:At minimum, one email per week is sent to all registered members covering rehearsal updates, events, donor drives, ticket sales, and weather-related schedule changes. Make sure to read these regularly!
- Members Page & Facebook:The members section of the RCS website includes additional resources and links to practice recordings. Similar and extra content is also shared on the Facebook page.
- Season Calendar:Distributed with your music, this calendar includes all rehearsal dates, concert dates, and other key events for the season. It also includes login information for the Members page.
- Concert Details:Closer to performance time, a separate document will be sent outlining what to expect during concert week, arrival times, and what to wear.
New Member Appreciation Night
Usually after the 4th rehearsal, we wrap up early and host a casual social gathering right at the church. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet your fellow singers! Snacks are generously provided by former chorus members — new members don’t need to bring a thing. Please plan to attend — we can’t wait to get to know you!
Health & Wellness
We care about the wellbeing of all our members. If you’re not feeling well, please stay home — we rehearse in close quarters, making it easy to spread illness. Masks are not required but are always welcome if you prefer to wear one.
We’re so excited to have you with us!