How overcoming first day nerves at new choir and orchestra led to ‘something exciting’

Everyone has the jitters, even butterflies in their stomach, at the thought of joining somewhere new, but it can lead to something life-changing.

The very first session with The People’s Orchestra(TPO) or its sister group, The People’s Show Choir(TPSC), may seem daunting but some of our members explain why it was worth overcoming those first day nerves to discover a special link with music, along with friendship and something to look forward to every week.

For most of our regulars, it’s all about finding a welcome haven to relax and have some ‘me time’. Walking through the door of first rehearsal to a group of strangers can seem a big step for many, but trust us when we tell you, they won’t feel like strangers for long.

TPO and TPSC are some of the friendliest community groups you can get involved with. The choirs run in cities and towns nationwide and you can find your local one here, while TPO has orchestras based in Birmingham and Wales, called Cerddorfa’r Bobl that rehearses in Carmarthen.

When you first walk in, it may look like everyone has known each other for a long time, be reassured that every single one of them has been in your position as a newcomer and settled in quickly.

Elliot Atkinson remembers when he first walked into TPSC at Halesowen: “I didn’t know any of the choir members but knew the choir leader Chris Weber from the orchestra, as I play piano. I’d started with TPO and was loving every second because everyone was so welcoming, so thought I’d try a choir too.

“I was nervous only knowing one person, but when I got there, everyone welcomed me so warmly and made sure I was OK.

“I really loved it and couldn’t wait to go back. The atmosphere was very relaxed. People were making mistakes, but that doesn’t matter as it is all about having fun. It was nice to be in a low-pressure environment.

“Chris Weber, the choir leader, is quite the comedian; telling jokes and lifting everyone’s morale. He causes mischief at TPO but nothing like he does with the choir.”

Elliot loved it so much that he not only sings but also accompanies the choir on piano.

Andy Hayward, who plays drums in TPO, also has no regrets about trying out the orchestra. He decided to go along to a rehearsal after watching TPO perform and hasn’t looked back.

“I came to watch TPO perform at West Bromwich Town Hall at Christmas and loved the atmosphere and repertoire, so I joined over the Christmas break,” said Andy.

“I went along in January and was thoroughly welcomed by all. I grateful for TPO’s patience with me trying to read music and the support and encouragement given by lots of people there.

“It’s great fun and they’re all wonderful to make music with. I’m already really looking forward to the next concert with everyone.”

Kevin Small had been messing about with his dad’s old trumpet that he found in the loft, when a friend encouraged him to sign up to TPO with her.

He now plays Trombone in TPO as he got hooked after the first rehearsal. “I saw a post on Facebook and recommended it to a friend who’d just started learning saxophone. She said ‘well, you’d better come with me’, knowing that I’d been messing about on my dad’s old trumpet I’d found in the loft.

“After a few rehearsals, someone mentioned there was an empty bass trombone seat in TPO. The very next day I ordered a brand-new bass trombone. I hadn’t played for over 20 years and didn’t realise how much I’d missed it.”

TPO member Laura Alves had a similar experience of being reunited with a lost love for her musical instrument.

“I had completely fallen out of love with playing and hadn’t picked up my flute for 12 years since my final university recital,” recalls Laura.

“One day, I’d finished watching a John Williams documentary and thought ‘enough is enough, let’s find a fun film music orchestra to join as this is what you love’. TPO was top of my search list, so I went along.

“The music is amazing, but it’s the people that make it truly special. I’ve enjoyed every second of it.”

Rav Thakar, a tuba player in TPO, was recommended the community orchestra: “I joined TPO after speaking with my piano teacher about how much I missed playing regularly and how I was looking to get involved with an ensemble.

“She highly recommended TPO, having known people in the orchestra and hearing what a welcoming and friendly environment it is.

“I joined and really enjoyed the rehearsals. Everyone has been incredibly welcoming and it’s been great to play such a varied mix of popular and challenging repertoire. Plus, I love that TPO plays at a range of exciting events like Comic Con and venues like Birmingham Symphony Hall.”

Deb Clarke, who plays clarinet in TPO, hasn’t regretted taking the plunge as she has found the other musicians and organisers “super friendly”.

“I joined TPO after attending their Mother’s Day concert in March 2025,” explained Deb. “The Concert was at Birmingham Symphony Hall, which was a superb venue with great acoustics.

“I loved the music they were playing and enjoyed the concert so much that I joined as a member a few months’ later, and haven’t regretted it once.

“The other musicians and staff are all super friendly and welcoming. They make it fun. It’s a joy to be part of and I look forward to playing every time.”

So if you are looking to join a new community music group and want to sing or play, take a look at The People’s Show Choir venues or consider The People’s Orchestra if you have reached Grade 7 or above in your instrument. New members are able to have two free taster sessions before they decide.

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