Bagpuss: if you are in Leeds, you will have easy access to the Leeds People's Choir? A good start, if my experience is anything to go by.

Just over two years ago, I joined a large lefty choir in Sydney - pretty much just to see what it was like. I didn't intend to stay in it, because I had other musical goals to achieve. However, it ended up changing my life. Not only did I meet people who are now my closest friends, I also got together with three of them to form a quartet (mainly vocal with some instruments). We rehearse at least weekly now, and perform whenever we can.

And my depressive illness sometimes stops me going to ALL the rehearsals, but I find the music - especially the small group - helps rather than hinders.

Good luck!

Callie