Vancouver Island’s New Tuneless Choirs Invite Joyful Singers of All Abilities

Sharon Marnell was in a public jacuzzi when she started singing. Another person commented on her voice, saying, “You sing nicely. You couldn’t join our choir.” This woman was part of a tuneless choir, which is for people who aren’t good singers. Intrigued, Marnell, who has a musical background, started her own tuneless choir in England.

She led multiple choirs there, growing from a few singers to 110 performing at a festival. Marnell moved to Canada in 2024 and is now launching two tuneless choirs on Vancouver Island. The first tuneless choir started in January 2016 in West Bridgford, England, thanks to Nadine Cooper, who wanted to sing.

Cooper asked local choir leader Bernie Bracha to help start a choir for those who couldn’t hold a tune. Marnell explained that as long as some people hit the right notes, it sounds good, similar to singing along at a concert. Today, over 30 tuneless choirs operate in England, with a retreat planned for February 2026 to celebrate their 10-year anniversary.

Marnell has seen how powerful singing can be, even for those who think they are bad at it. Many members avoided singing for years due to being told they were tone deaf. Joining a tuneless choir changed that, allowing them to sing freely, laugh, and form friendships.

She is launching choirs in Langford and Sidney. “If you love music, if you sing in the shower, if you’ve been told you sound terrible, you’re exactly who we want,” Marnell said. No musical ability is required. They will choose familiar songs, so everyone can sing along.

The goal is joy, confidence, and connection. There are no auditions and no experience needed. The Sidney choir will meet on January 7 at Peace Lutheran Church Hall, and the Langford choir will start on January 8 at Redeemer Lutheran Church Hall. The cost to attend is $15.