FAQs

Who can join in?

Anyone! I have tried to make it accessible for anyone to join in with, no matter whether you’re a musician, singer, or you just like to join in with carols at Christmas! If you really want to join in but you’re not sure how do feel free to drop me an email on cat@catmcgill.uk and I’ll do what I can to help.

I’m not a confident singer and I’m confused by all the different versions!

I would suggest you stick to the melody. You can download either just the lyrics on their own and use the melody recording to learn the part, or if you know how to read music you can download the tune notation to help you learn it.

I am a man / have a deep voice – which part shall I sing?

You can sing whichever part you are most comfortable with! You might want to stick with the melody, or if you are a confident harmony singer you could try the tenor or bass part. Why not listen to them all and then decide?

Why are there so many instrument parts in different keys?

This is because different instruments have different ‘home’ keys, so when lots of different instruments are playing together you need to make sure everyone has music in the correct key for their instrument.

I don’t know what key my instrument is in?

If you play the recorder or flute you will need the music in C. If you play the clarinet or trumpet, you will need the music in Bb. If you play the alto saxophone or tenor horn you will need the music in Eb. If you play something that I haven’t listed then either ask your instrumental teacher or drop me an email!

How easy is the easier part?

Well, I have passed my Grade 1 exam on the tenor horn (for a sponsored event about four years ago!) and I can play it, with a bit of practice..! 3/2 can look like a tricky time signature, so it’s best to think of it as a ‘slow three’, and play as if a minim is one beat and a crotchet is half a beat. If you’re finding it tricky, listening to the music can be really helpful, as once you’ve got the tune in your head you’ll find it easier to play.

Can children join in?

Yes! We would love this to be an event for all the family – though please make sure that all children bring a grown up with them who will be responsible for them throughout the event. If you or your children play a musical instrument, I have written out easy harmony lines for all of the carols, which should be playable for anyone who is around Grade 1 standard. Children are very welcome to join in with the singing as well.

What are the timings?

This page will be updated when full details have been worked out. Here are the timings from last year for reference:

4pm – Audience arrive. Introduction from OUTSIDE Arts

4.15pm – Audience carols 

4.50pm – Joint performance of ‘On Christmas Night’

5pm – Event finish

Will there be audience carols again?

I hope so! I will update when I know more but here are the details from 2023 for reference:

Audience carols were: Hark the herald angels sing, O little town of Bethlehem, The Sussex Carol, Ding dong merrily on high, In the bleak midwinter, The first Noel, O come all ye faithful.

Click here to download lyrics for audience carols
Download music for audience carols:
Click here for instruments in C (eg flute)
Click here for instruments in Bb (eg trumpet)
Click here for instruments in Eb (eg saxophone)

Is there parking / refreshments?

There is some parking available for performers. There will a bar on site with hot drinks available. The singing will take place outside unless it is raining, so do wrap up warm!