FAQ

What is Sign Singing? Will have have to sing?

We are a “choir with a difference” in that we sing with our hands, not our voices using British Sign Language. All the songs are translated and taught to weekly by the Choir Leader.

How much does it cost to be a member of Handy Voices?

Handy Voices is not funded but we try to keep cost to a minimum. The first session is free! After that, we charge £6 per session which can be paid on a weekly or at a discounted rate of £66/ termly basis.  However we never want costs to be an issue with attendance so for 2020 we have created an Access Fund,  please contact Christine if you would like to be part of this scheme or other arrangements need to be made.

Why does Handy Voices charge per session?

We are entirely self-funded and membership fees cover hall hire and costs associated with performing.

How much time would I need to commit as a member?

We ask that members attend as many of our weekly sessions (term-time only) as possible so that you don’t miss out on learning songs. It is entirely up to you how many or few performances you choose to come to – we have some members that go to as many as possible and others who only occasionally perform.

Sometimes we have opportunities for 1:1 or small group sessions for specific performances, however these are entirely optional and at no additional cost.

When and where are the sessions?

Our sessions are held in Oxford City Centre  at the Oxford Deaf and Hard of Hearing Centre.

Handy Voices sessions are: Wednesday nights from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

Please see ‘Where to find us’ for more information.

I’d love to learn some signing, but do I have to perform?

There is no pressure to perform and we welcome everyone.

What sort of songs do Handy Voices sign?

We perform a wide range of songs including pop, soft rock, musical theatre, Christmas carols and more! Our members have a meeting every term to discuss the songs we would like to sign. We also learn some songs for our bespoke bookings.

Take a look at our video gallery for some examples!

I don’t know any BSL! Is this a problem?

Not at all! The signing experience of our members varies from people who’ve never signed before to those who’ve been signing all their lives. Our leader, Christine, translates all the songs and teaches everything you’ll need to know.

How are Handy Voices funded?

We’re not! Handy Voices has yet to receive a grant, loan or other source of funding so we raise money from our membership fees, bookings and donations made at our performances.

Got a question we haven’t answered? No problem – just drop us a message.