Just got back from choir. We're singing all nasty choral arrangements of pop songs for our summer concert. I like pop, but yuck, not arranged chorally!

How do you get yourself through singing something you really don't enjoy?

You approach it as a "professional" job - even though it's voluntary. And you use it as an opportunity to explore new techniques.

Best of luck

Katyjay

Grin and bear it and remember you're not the only one who has had to do it.

Try to at least pretend its the best thing since sliced bread, concentrate on the words and general sentiment whilst singing, then if you still wish to shoot the arranger do that in private!

Been there, done that, got the t-shirt *cough* The Armed Man *cough*

In spite of nearly walking out of virtually every single rehearsal, I gritted my teeth, thought of the support that my presence gave some of the others (yes I know this sounds big-headed, but I could manage the piece whereas others struggled), then danced for joy when I handed in my copy of the music afterwards.

A useful experience, as it proved that I can get survive concerts where I loathe the work I'm performing.

Been there, done that, you have my sympathy

I suppose the honest answer is that we can't please everyone all the time. Whilst you might not like these arrangements, others and certainly audiences will. It's all part of singing in a choir - you can't expect all the repertoire to made up of things you personally like! We can't always account for singular tastes!

David

um yeah, i didn't actually say i expected the music to always suit my taste, though?

I know, but you are saying you don't like it, and therefore perhaps recognizing that it gives pleasure to other people wouldn't be a bad thing?

David

nah, i just reckon they need a taste implant or something. (Just kidding, I know what you mean.)

The problem I have with light rep is that noone in the choir (and I really do mean noone) likes singing it. It's just not what we had in mind, I think, when we signed up. But the committee maintain that it's a big money earner, so essentially it funds our more erudite pursuits. I know it's worth doing, if only for that reason. But it still kind of catches in my throat everytime I try to practice it.

The other issue I have is that several of the pieces are remarkably difficult to sing. So I guess the four year old in me thinks that, if I have to work hard to get something right, I really should be getting some pleasure out of it! Me me me, and all that.

I'm just sounding off really. I know I'll smile sweetly, and get on with it, but muttering darkly is my coping strategy!