Anvil Chorus

Anvil Chorus is the performing name of the West Midlands Barbershop Harmony Club. Registered Charity No.1145036.
The club was established in 1977 in Sandwell and is still on the border with Hamstead, off the Newton Road. No one is completely sure where our name comes from – some believe it may have originated from a pub, others that it may represent the metal industry once predominant in the locality.

More than 40 years later we’re still going strong, and our members are among the 2,500 men and 3,500 women who regularly sing in 150-odd registered Barbershop Clubs across the UK today.

Forget about the stereotypical image of a Barbershop quartet wearing straw boaters and striped blazers though, we haven’t done that for years, although the legendary camaraderie of Barbershop groups hasn’t changed and is often given as a reason why people stay to enjoy the friendly, social aspect of rehearsing together, and performing at events in the community and at competitions.

Thinking about joining Anvil Chorus?
At school, were you told that you couldn’t or shouldn’t sing — don’t be put off.
You may sing in the bathroom, the car or round the house, even after a pint in the pub – that’s a great start.
You might never have sung and always wanted to try – here’s your chance.
You might just want to know if you can sing in tune – you probably can.

What do we do?
We sing unaccompanied four-part close-harmony in the Barbershop style and perform mainly around the West Midlands region but will travel further to compete.

Why not pop in for a listen, then have a go?
No obligation, you don’t have to read music and you won’t be subjected to an embarrassing audition. Come along to our rehearsals on any Tuesday.

What to expect when you come along?
A warm welcome.
Some of the best vocal coaching in the UK.
Ways to make the most of your voice and lungs.

Where do we meet and when?
7.30pm to 10.00 pm each Tuesday at Grove Vale School, Monksfield Avenue, Great Barr B43 6AL (on the A4041 between M5 J1 and M6 J7)

Why not hire us?
Hire the chorus or a quartet for an occasion? – wedding, anniversary, birthday, corporate events, after-dinners, workshops, festivals, fayres and fetes, open days or your own show – we particularly like being invited to support charity fund-raising events or just to demonstrate what we do. We love Bandstands and Christmas. And we’re available morning, afternoon and evening.