Introvert Vs Choir: Can I Join a Choir if I'm an Introvert?

Singing in a choir may seem a daunting task for someone who identifies as an introvert. Will there be too many people? Will it be too noisy? Will I miss my independence and time alone?

Joining a group setting can feel overwhelming for introverts. Trust me, I know… I'm a choir leader and group facilitator who adores leading the Starling Arts community. But I'm also an introvert who draws much of her energy from being alone. I'm here to tell you that introverts can thrive in a choir setting!

As introverts, we may feel more natural singing alone. But that doesn’t mean you can’t be an amazing group performer and choir member as well. You might just have to change the way you view group singing to make it work for you.

Here are some tools introverted choir members can use to build confidence, improve stage presence and performing abilities.

1. Dump the misconceptions

Many people (including introverts themselves) have misconceptions about what introversion actually means. Susan Cain, author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, points out that shyness and introversion aren’t the same.

"Shyness is the fear of negative judgment, and introversion is a preference for quiet, minimally stimulating environments," she writes. Take the example of Barbra Streisand: "Barbra Streisand has an outgoing, larger than life personality, but a paralyzing case of stage fright: she’s a shy extrovert."

Another misconception is that introverts all suffer from stage fright. But even shy introverts don't necessarily have performance anxiety. Most shy people are moderately shy and can get by fine in front of people despite their shyness. It’s only when this shyness becomes extreme that it can lead to cases of performance anxiety. Even this is something you can conquer, just as performers like Barbra Streisand have.

2. Develop a pre-rehearsal and performance routine

Some say that being an introvert can have benefits when it comes to performing. Introverts often make better public speakers because we tend to take more time to prepare and think things through. So while your extroverted choir pals might be chatting away before a rehearsal or performance, you can feel justified in taking this time to go over the songs in your head, warm up your voice, or simply spend some quiet time alone. I find it useful to practice mindfulness through breathing exercises before and after choir sessions. This can recharge my batteries, leaving me ready to take on the sensory challenges to come.

3. Enjoy the Company

Just because we take energy from being alone doesn't mean we can't reap the benefits of being around others. While I re-charge in my own thoughts and company, I find much stimulation and inspiration from connecting with others. I love hearing about others' lives. I love being around different energy levels. I love gently guiding the group to a shared outcome. And most of all I love feeling part of something! The Starling Arts choirs are an incredible community who never fail to astonish me. I cherish the time I spend with them, knowing I'll also enjoy some alone time on either side.

Knowing I can share the limelight is also really reassuring. I don’t need to be centre stage in a choir. Instead, I can enjoy working together as a group. This takes off some of the pressure.

4. Prepare some conversation pointers

Sometimes the most daunting thing about being in a group is social interaction. This can seem harder in a group with people we don't know. Us introverts don’t tend to be as quick thinking as extroverts in social situations, and I've found it can help to think about some topics beforehand to help fill any awkward silences. If you’re taking part in a Starling Arts activity, rest assured that we’ll be on hand to introduce people to each other and iron out any awkwardness you might feel.

5. Know when to fake it...

Us introverts don’t always act like we feel. In fact, many people are surprised when they learn that I'm an introvert! The public facing nature of my job means I'm capable of (and used to) using extrovert qualities. Learning when to turn up the extrovert dial has been a useful tool, and something most introverts do on a daily basis.

6. …and when to be real

Of course adapting your personality is tiring and needs to be done with care. I always aim to balance my personality with the demands of my job, and prioritise being genuine and open.

It’s also important to remember that performing onstage isn’t the same as networking or interacting at a party. While it may serve to act more outgoing than normal in a networking situation, you might feel more relaxed on stage or in rehearsal by being real.

7. Take time to recuperate

Extroverts and introverts need time to recharge, but each get energy from different sources. Extroverts often feel more relaxed after they've been social. Meanwhile the opposite is often true for us introverts. If performing or rehearsing uses a lot of energy, take time after each session to regain that vitality.

You may find rehearsals and performing more exhausting than others, but if you learn to find balance in even the most stimulating situations, you may discover some amazing experiences!

Are you an introvert wondering if choir is for you? Follow my lead and give it a go! Our new groups The Starling Voices are perfect for introverts and extroverts alike!