Rock Choir, the world’s largest contemporary choir experience, is expanding across Scotland with the launch of three brand-new local groups. Prospective singers are being invited to join free taster sessions in Alness, Golspie and Inverness, which will be led by vocal leader Aileen Ogilvie.
Three new Scottish locations announced
Established in 2005 by award-winning musician and singer Caroline Redman Lusher MBE, Rock Choir has grown into a household name across the UK. The choir is designed to be accessible, inclusive, and life-changing, offering people of all abilities a welcoming space to sing without the pressure of formal auditions or reading music.
The upcoming taster sessions give local residents a chance to experience first-hand the joy, music, and community spirit that make the choir unique. They provide an uplifting environment to learn new songs, boost well-being, and build lasting friendships.
Well known across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland for its energy and impact, Rock Choir connects all its choirs into a national network, learning the same songs simultaneously.
Aileen Ogilvie to lead the new groups
Aileen Ogilvie will lead the new locations at Alness, Golspie and Inverness, joining nine other Rock Choir Leaders across Scotland. Aileen’s singing voice was first nurtured through competing in the local Mòd in Inverness, where a lifelong connection to Gaelic song and performance began.
From her early roots in Highland tradition, Aileen has built a dynamic and wide-ranging musical career as a performer, songwriter, and vocal leader. She holds a BA in Popular Music Performance from Perth College UHI and has performed widely across the UK and Europe, with appearances at major cultural events including Glastonbury Festival, Belladrum, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and the St Anza Poetry Festival.
Rock Choir offers people of all ages a fun and uplifting alternative to traditional classical or community choirs. There are no auditions and no requirement to read music – just the opportunity to sing feel-good pop, rock and contemporary chart hits, all carefully arranged and created by a team of Grammy award-winning producers, with bespoke arrangements exclusive to Rock Choir.
Free taster sessions and term details
Free taster sessions, run by Aileen, will take place in Alness, Golspie and Inverness just before the new term starts on August 24, 26 and 27. Singers can also sign up for a free taster session during term-time.
Location details are as follows: Inverness sessions run on Mondays from 11am-12.30pm at Inverness Ice Centre, Sun Terrace, Bught Drive, Inverness-shire, IV3 5ST, and from 7.30pm-9pm at Drakies Primary School, School Hall, Drumossie Avenue, Drakies, Inverness, IV2 3SG. Golspie sessions run on Wednesdays from 7.30pm-9pm at Fountain Road Hall, Large Hall, Fountain Road, Golspie, Sutherland, KW10 6TH. Alness sessions run on Thursdays from 7.30pm-9pm at Capstone Christine Centre, Sanctuary, 1-5 Obsdale Road, Alness, Ross and Cromarty, IV17 OTY.
Members regularly take part in once-in-a-lifetime opportunities locally, nationally and internationally, from performing at Wembley Stadium to Carnegie Hall in New York, and travelling to cities such as Berlin and countries including Greece and Spain. These opportunities complement weekly rehearsals, creating unforgettable moments that bring together music, friendship and confidence.
Community and confidence at the core
All Rock Choir Leaders are highly trained and passionate, guiding every rehearsal, ensuring all members of all abilities feel supported and encouraged. From performing at local community events and fundraising for charities, to appearing on national television and singing in iconic venues, festivals and high-profile events, Rock Choir is about far more than singing.
Rock Choir Leader Aileen said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to bring Rock Choir to Alness, Golspie and Inverness. I can’t wait to meet all our new Rockies.” She added: “We’ve got some fantastic new songs to learn this term and add to our amazing Rock Choir repertoire. Rock Choir gives you the chance to meet new people and make new friends – everyone is welcome.”
New members are invited to join a free taster session this August and September. There is no pressure, no auditions and no need to read music – just come along and see what Rock Choir can offer. Sign up for a free taster at www.rockchoir.com.
