Students are also divided up into groups of 10 to form consort groups. Here, the music performed can vary from a motet to close harmony 'barber shop' format. An emphasis is placed on sight-reading which, regardless of ability, will improve very quickly.
The consort group work culminates in a workshop in which each group performs a close harmony arrangement often with choreography and props. Most students who attend the courses will have sung with a choir for a few years, or may have had singing lessons; many will be able to play a musical instrument to a reasonably high standard (Grade V or VI, for example), although this is not a requirement. There is no audition, but a confidential reference from a singing teacher or director of music is an essential part of the application form.
