THE West Devon Choir kicks off the new year in a new venue, and is inviting new members to come along and join them.

Rehearsals will be held in the All Saints Church Hall on Market Street on Tuesday evenings from 7pm to 9pm.

The West Devon Folk Choir is now in its fifth year, and is led by Paul Wilson, music director of Wren Music.

Paul has more than thirty years experience as a professional singer, songwriter, composer, performer and music educator.

The choir has performed at major folk festivals such as Sidmouth FolkWeek, and performs at community events and concerts throughout the year.

Traditional and folk songs are at the heart of their repertoire, and local material is mixed with world music and newly written pieces.

This term they will be learning new songs written specially for them by the composer Tim Laycock, commissioned with the support of the BBC Performing Arts Fund.  

The choir is open to people of all ages over 16, and all voices are welcome.

There are no auditions, and no prior experience of singing is necessary. You do not need to read music as the songs are learned primarily by ear.

New members are welcome to join at any time.  

Membership is £70 for the ten-week term or £9 per week and concessions are available for full-time students and people in receipt of income-related benefit.

Further information on Wren Music's full programme of adult and youth folk choirs, orchestras and bands, concerts and dance events throughout Devon, as well as CDs, song and tune books and other publications can be found at http://www.wrenmusic.co.uk">www.wrenmusic.co.uk or by calling 01837 53754.