The Oakhurst Community Choir performs on the Decatur Square on May 3, 2014. Photo by Dan Whisenhunt

The Oakhurst Community Choir and the DeKalb Choral Guild are inviting people to sing along with them.

Both choirs require fees to offset the costs of performances and buying sheet music, but plan to offer alternatives for people who don’t have the ability to pay.

The Community Choir will hold its first rehearsal of the fall season Wednesday, September 3rd at The Solarium, 321 West Hill St from 7 pm to 8.30 pm.

“There is no audition, and no experience of choral singing is necessary,” the notice from the Community Choir says. “Like all choirs, we find it easier to recruit high voices than low ones – so guys are especially encouraged to turn out and give it a go!”

There’s a $50 membership fee for the 12 week session. Alice Reeves, the choir’s administrative director, said she’s looking into getting some grant funds that will cover the costs for people who don’t have the ability to pay.

“Rehearsals will be held every Wednesday at 7 pm, and this semester we will be learning a selection of traditional Christmas carols and other holiday songs to be performed a cappella at the tree lighting in Oakhurst Village in December,” the announcement says. “The choir is led by Holly Scarborough, music teacher and Decatur resident.”

To register, send an email to: [email protected]

The deadline is Aug. 22

The DeKalb Choral Guild has been around for 37 years and rehearses at Avondale Estates First Baptist church.

“We are a non-professional, auditioned adult co-ed chorus with a professional music staff,” President Mary Gowing said. “We perform 3-4 concerts a year plus some other community performances.”

There will be auditions on Aug. 11 and Aug. 18. Singers should call or email in advance to RSVP. The email address is [email protected] and the phone number is 678-318-1362.

The Choral Guild charges a $150 fee to join, but Gowing said no one will be turned away because of their inability to pay.

“Singers who cannot pay may arrange to provide in-kind services to the DCG to offset fees,” she said. “The DCG also has established a fund to provide financial support covering some or all of the participation fee. Singers provide their own concert attire (black tuxedo with black cummerbund and bow tie for men, black uniform dress for ladies) and black folder. Music is provided by the Guild.”

Gowing said the Choral Guild has a new director this year, too. Mary Evelyn Root served as director from 1992 to 2000. She has rejoined the Choral Guild for the 2014-2015 season. She holds a bachelor’s degree in music and vocal performance, as well as a master’s degree in music and literature from Florida State University.