THE South Wales Gay Men's Chorus is holding an open rehearsal and new member evening on August 6.

Following an eventful year so far the choir are holding the event in St Anne's Church, Crofts Street, Roath, Cardiff at 7.30pm.

Established in 2008 by musical director Andy Bulleyment, the chorus has gone from strength to strength, starting with a handful of keen singers and now boasting a membership over 40 strong.

Over the last seven years the chorus has been establishing itself as a vibrant addition to the Welsh tradition of male voice choirs drawing members and supporters from all ages and backgrounds. The chorus is notable in its expansive choice of repertoire from traditional and classical to modern pop. Whilst very serious about the music they make, the chorus is also not afraid to take a lighter approach and is renowned for injecting a little humour into their performances.

The Chorus also has a strong social conscience and supports a different charity each year. Charities are nominated by members of the choir. For 2015, SWGMC is supporting Mind Cymru in the important work they do around mental health.

During 2015 the chorus has taken part in the bi-annual Cornwall International Male Voice Choir festival, sung on Radio 2’s Jeremy Vine show, represented Wales at the London Pride parade amongst a number of public appearances including their latest concert in June.

Chorus chair, Nick McNeill said that the open evening "will be an opportunity for people to find out about what we do and have the chance to take part. It would be great if anyone coming along to the evening would like to join the choir; we are always looking out for new members and the will be guaranteed a warm welcome!"