Quick answers to the things people ask before joining.
Who can join Overberg Choir?
Anyone who loves to sing. We welcome adult voices from across Greater Hermanus, Onrus, Vermont, Sandbaai, Zwelihle, Mount Pleasant, Hawston, Stanford, Kleinmond and surrounding Overberg communities. No audition, no music-reading required, no previous choir experience needed.
When and where do you rehearse?
We rehearse on Wednesday evenings at De Wet Hall in Onrus. Doors open at 6:30pm for setup and hellos. We sing from 7:00 to 9:00pm with a coffee break in the middle. Weekly during term time, following the school calendar.
How much does it cost?
The first five months are free, September through December 2026. From January 2027, members pay a small monthly subscription that covers hall hire, music licensing and a contribution to running costs. The figure will be confirmed to members ahead of time and we keep it as low as possible.
Do I need to audition?
No. Overberg Choir is an audition-free community choir. If you can carry a tune (or even if you are not sure that you can), you are welcome.
What if I cannot read sheet music?
Most of our members cannot. We teach by ear with audio rehearsal tracks for each voice part, so you can practise at home between rehearsals. Reading music is not a requirement to join or to enjoy yourself.
What kind of music does the choir sing?
A mix of contemporary pop, musical theatre, gospel, jazz standards and other uplifting modern repertoire. We choose pieces that are accessible and joyful, with parts arranged for all voices and abilities. Not classical or church-specific, though we sometimes draw on those traditions.
Who founded Overberg Choir?
Cliff van Tonder. South African born, England formed. He founded The Sandton Choir in Johannesburg in 2002 (still singing today), then Elmbridge Choir in Surrey in 2005, which grew into Surrey Music, a registered UK charity with three choirs, a big band and a youth ensemble. In 2019 he was honoured at the Palace of Westminster with the British Citizen Award for Services to the Arts. He returned to South Africa in May 2026 and settled in Hermanus.
Has the choir already started?
Yes. We rehearse on Wednesday evenings during term at De Wet Hall in Onrus, and our first term is full. New voices now join our priority waiting list, and we invite people in as places open up.
Where is De Wet Hall?
De Wet Hall is in Onrus, a coastal suburb of Greater Hermanus in the Western Cape, South Africa. It is about a five-minute drive from central Hermanus, with parking and easy access from the R43.
Do I have to perform on stage?
No. Concerts are part of choir life, but performing is optional. You are welcome to be a rehearsal-only member if that suits you better. Most members do choose to perform once they have settled in.
What happens to concert proceeds?
Net concert proceeds support local Overberg charities and community causes, chosen by members each year. Singing for the joy of it, performing for the good of others.
How do I join?
Fill in the form further down this page with your name, email, suburb and voice part if you know it (we can help if you do not). Our first term is full, so you will join our priority waiting list, and we will be in touch as soon as a place opens up.
