A NEW out-of-tune singing choir has been launched in the city for members who want to reach any high note they like.

The Southampton Tuneless Choir are looking to invite anyone who lacks the ability, confidence and practice to sing in tune to join their new club, encouraging residents in Southampton to "sing like no one is listening".

With 30 of the out-of-tune singing groups already happening across the UK, this choir is also aimed at those who want to enjoy the physical, emotional and social benefits that singing with a group brings, without the stress of trying to improve.

Creator of the Southampton Tuneless Choir Pauline Williams said: "I see lots of people really enjoying singing together in my other groups and I thought, why should people who can’t sing be deprived of all the benefits that this brings? People sometimes come in to the group feeling a bit down but they always go out with a smile on their faces.

"Singing, whatever the quality, is really uplifting and makes you feel good. I attended a conference where the founder of Tuneless Choirs, Nadine, [for all tuneless choir singing groups across the UK] was speaking and I was truly inspired. I looked at what was available in and around Southampton and found there’s nothing for those who are truly tuneless, and don’t actually want to learn how to sing. I love belting out tunes with a group of like-minded people so I really wanted to launch a Tuneless Choir in Southampton.”

Nadine Cooper, founder of Tuneless Choirs, said: "I'm absolutely delighted that Pauline wants to start the Tuneless Choir in Southampton, as she really understands the need for the singing group. I actually stopped singing in public for years as I was told that I was ruining it for everyone else when I joined a normal choir, but I still wanted to enjoy singing with others."

Those interested in joining can pay for a whole term in advance, which is equivalent to £6 a session, or can attend on a pay-as-you-go basis for £7 for each session.

Weekly singing meetings take place on Mondays from 7.30pm to 9pm at The 1865 in Brunswick Square.

For more information, visit http://www.tunelesschoir.com/southampton.