FAQs
Welcome! Here you'll find answers to common questions about Citizens of the World Choir. We've organised everything under helpful headings to make finding what you need as easy as possible.Can't find what you're looking for? Please email Bryony at production@cotwchoir.com – we'd love to hear from you.
ABOUT THE CHOIR
Who are Citizens of the World Choir?
We are the UK’s leading refugee choir led by our in-house conductor and co-founder, Becky. Our choir uses a unique mixture of step conducting, voice painting cues, samba-style conducting, and BSL to learn and perform music. Our members look to Becky for these cues and for support in making joyful music together so we come as a self-contained unit with Becky conducting for all performances we commit to.
How many members are in the choir?
We usually perform with 40-50 of our members, typically arranged in three rows where everyone can clearly see one another and our conductor. We're made up of around one-third male and two-thirds female members, with a 50/50 proportion of refugees and allied members. We're immensely proud to have 28 nationalities represented and we can sing in 9 languages!
What makes the choir unique?
When working with displaced people, it takes more time and a greater respect for clear communication. We've developed our own distinctive approach to music-making that celebrates diversity and creates genuine connection. Please see our Working With Us document [here] for more details.
Where is the choir based?
We're based in London and primarily perform within London and the surrounding areas, though we're happy to discuss opportunities further afield.Welcome! Here you'll find answers to common questions about Citizens of the World Choir. We've organised everything under helpful headings to make finding what you need as easy as possible.
Can't find what you're looking for? Please email Bryony at production@cotwchoir.com – we'd love to hear from you.
BOOKING & PERFORMANCES
How do I book the choir?
Get in touch with us at production@cotwchoir.com and we'll discuss your event, dates, and requirements. We recommend booking as early as possible, especially for specific dates or special requests.
What types of events do you perform at?
We perform at corporate events, private celebrations, festivals, charity events, community gatherings, and cultural occasions. Each performance brings joy and raises awareness about the experiences of displaced people.
How long does the choir perform for?
Set lengths are flexible depending on your needs. Usually a set of 3-4 songs lasts 20-30 minutes. We can also include introductions to choir members, poetry readings, and/or solo pieces to extend the performance.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 8-12 weeks in advance to ensure availability and allow time for any special preparations or song requests. Please note we get booked up far in advance for Refugee Week (June) so more notice is required then, although if you have a last-minute booking, get in touch, as it may still be possible.
Who are Citizens of the World Choir?
We are the UK’s leading refugee choir led by our in-house conductor and co-founder, Becky. Our choir uses a unique mixture of step conducting, voice painting cues, samba-style conducting, and BSL to learn and perform music. Our members look to Becky for these cues and for support in making joyful music together so we come as a self-contained unit with Becky conducting for all performances we commit to.
How many members are in the choir?
We usually perform with 40-50 of our members, typically arranged in three rows where everyone can clearly see one another and our conductor. We're made up of around one-third male and two-thirds female members, with a 50/50 proportion of refugees and allied members. We're immensely proud to have 28 nationalities represented and we can sing in 9 languages!
What makes the choir unique?
When working with displaced people, it takes more time and a greater respect for clear communication. We've developed our own distinctive approach to music-making that celebrates diversity and creates genuine connection. Please see our Working With Us document [here] for more details.
Where is the choir based?
We're based in London and primarily perform within London and the surrounding areas, though we're happy to discuss opportunities further afield.Welcome! Here you'll find answers to common questions about Citizens of the World Choir. We've organised everything under helpful headings to make finding what you need as easy as possible.
Can't find what you're looking for? Please email Bryony at production@cotwchoir.com – we'd love to hear from you.
MUSIC & REPERTOIRE
What is in the choir's usual repertoire?
We usually prepare 4-6 songs each season, ranging from well-known pieces to songs composed specially for us. Our in-house creative team writes and arranges all of our music. There will often be a couple of more reflective pieces in our set, but the majority is uplifting, joyful music to bring a smile to anyone listening. You won't hear another choir sing what we sing in the way that we sing it.
Can the choir perform special requests?
Yes, we're glad to learn particular pieces, though it depends on a few things. Firstly, what else we have in the diary. Secondly, learning a new piece requires 3-4 extra rehearsals, which means additional cost. Please discuss any requests as early as possible.
Does the choir need musical accompaniment?
Yes. We usually perform with a pianist and/or occasionally with backing tracks. We particularly enjoy being joined onstage by our associate artists (such as violin and percussion) when budget and space allow.
What languages can the choir sing in?
We can sing in 9 different languages, reflecting the incredible diversity of our members' backgrounds and experiences. Some of the languages we have already performed in are: English, Welsh, Zulu, Yoruba, Arabic, Farsi, Ukrainian, Swahili. We always learn each language from a native or fluent choir member ensuring we honour its sound, meaning, and culture.
TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS
How much space does the choir need to perform?
Stage sizes vary depending on the nature of the event, but we need a minimum of 3.5 metres deep x 4.5 metres wide. For large-scale gigs and festivals, we have dedicated Festival Tech Spec available.
Does the choir have a dedicated sound engineer?
No, we don't travel with our own sound engineer. We're very happy to work with contracted sound suppliers for events or in-house teams at festivals and venues with existing sound systems.Does the choir have its own PA system?No, we don't have our own kit – the spaces and demands for performances vary so widely that this wouldn't be practical. We're experienced at working alongside contracted sound suppliers or in-house technical teams.
What about lighting requirements?
Standard stage lighting is usually sufficient. For special events or evening performances, good visibility of the conductor and choir members is essential. We're happy to discuss specific lighting needs for your venue.
Do you need any special equipment for rehearsals?
If we're rehearsing at your venue before the performance, we'll need access to the same space (or similar), seating for all members, and any accompaniment equipment (keyboard/sound system).
ACCESSIBILITY & PASTORAL CARE
What are the accessibility requirements for the choir?
We have a number of members with additional access needs. These include:
- Comfortable seating (chairs with backs) for all rehearsals and performances
- Minimal steps, or ideally ramps, to access the stage and all areas where the choir will be resting or performing
- Clear pathways wide enough for comfortable movement
- Adequate lighting in all choir areas
Please let us know about your venue's accessibility features when booking.
Do you need food and refreshments provided?
Providing food and refreshments for the choir goes an incredibly long way to making members feel welcome and comfortable. Many of our displaced members live in food poverty, and being provided a meal means a lot. With 40-50 people, we realise this may be sandwiches or buffet-style food – and members are always grateful for it. We also need access to drinking water throughout and toilet facilities.
Do you need a green room or rest space?
Yes, providing a green room is very important for the choir. This should be a comfortable space with seating for everyone and room to eat and add final touches to outfits before the gig. It needs to be out of public areas so there's a quiet, private space if anyone needs it. This is particularly important for members who may find busy public spaces overwhelming.
Are there any dietary requirements?
With such a diverse group, we have members with various dietary requirements including halal, vegetarian, vegan, and specific allergies. We'll provide you with detailed information closer to the event date. Generally, offering a variety of options works well.
What about parking or transport?
We don't require parking as most members use public transport, but clear directions to the venue via public transport are essential. If the venue is difficult to reach by public transport, please discuss this with us when booking.
SAFEGUARDING & MEDIA
What safeguarding policies do you have?
The safety and wellbeing of all our members is our absolute priority. We have comprehensive safeguarding policies in place and all team members are DBS checked. We're happy to share our safeguarding policy on request.
Can we take photos and videos of the choir?
Yes, absolutely! We love seeing photos and videos from our performances. If you use Instagram, please tag us @citizensworldchoir so we can share and celebrate together. However, if you plan to use images for commercial purposes or extensive publicity campaigns, please discuss this with us first.
Can choir members be interviewed or featured in media?
Some members are happy to share their stories, while others prefer to maintain privacy. If you'd like to arrange interviews or individual features, please discuss this with us well in advance so we can liaise with members who are comfortable participating.
COSTS & PAYMENTS
How much does it cost to book the choir?
For corporate and private bookings, we cost £5,000-£10,000 within London. Every time we meet (including every rehearsal) costs us £2,500 – this includes covering travel for members, providing refreshments, rehearsal space, and all of the team. Charity gig bookings are approximately £2,500.
Why does it cost this much?
We're a small arts organisation, and these costs reflect the real expense of bringing together 40-50 people, many of whom face financial barriers to participation. The fee covers member travel, rehearsal space, refreshments, our professional team, musical arrangements, and the vital support work that helps displaced people engage safely in the arts.
What if our budget is smaller?
If our standard fees feel insurmountable, please do get in touch at production@cotwchoir.com. We're a team always keen to talk to other people trying to make a positive impact, and we'll see what might be possible.
When is payment required?
We typically require a deposit to confirm your booking, with the balance due before or on the day of performance. We'll provide clear payment terms when you book.
Are travel costs included?
Within London, yes. For performances outside London, we'll discuss any additional travel costs with you during booking.
PERFORMANCE DETAILS
What does the choir wear?
We encourage our members to dress their best for performances whilst celebrating and reflecting their heritage. This means our choir colours of purple, cream, yellow, and green – and we love a bit of sparkle! The result is a beautiful, vibrant, and diverse visual representation of our community.
Can the choir perform outdoors?
Yes, we can perform outdoors with appropriate technical support and weather protection. We'll need cover for any sound equipment and consideration of backup plans for adverse weather, as well as ensuring member comfort and safety.
How early do you arrive before a performance?
We typically arrive 1-2 hours before performance time for set-up, sound check, and preparation. We'll confirm exact timings when finalizing your booking.
Can the choir mingle with guests?
Yes, many members enjoy chatting with audience members after performances. This can be a beautiful part of the event, allowing for genuine connection and conversation.
MORE INFORMATION
How can I support the choir beyond booking a performance?
Thank you for asking! There are many ways to support our work, from donations to volunteering to spreading the word. Please email us at production@cotwchoir.com to learn more.
Can I attend a rehearsal to see the choir before booking?
We welcome people interested in booking to observe rehearsals when possible. Please contact us to arrange this, as we need to ensure our members are comfortable and the session is appropriate for visitors.
Do you have promotional materials we can use?
Yes! We can provide photos, videos, biographical information, and quotes for your publicity materials. Please let us know what you need when you book.
Still have questions? We'd love to hear from you. Contact Bryony at production@cotwchoir.com and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.