Guest - just to point out that my comment about beer was based on the fact that I prefer to sing on something that will lubricate my throat without drying it out. I have sung oratoria and opera both as a soloist and chorus member, but would have avoided mulled wine like the plague. On the other hand I have enjoyed (and needed) the refreshment of a pint of ordinary draught bitter on many occasions in concert intervals. I would defy you to sing the first tenor line of the Lachrymosa from the Berlioz Requiem, without a pint first.

I would point out that I definately don't need alcohol to give me the confidence or courage to get up and sing - I'm sure that anyone who knows me would agree with that.

In the past most English Folk Music was performed in pubs and the singers enjoyed the odd pint or two - why should we argue with tradition ?

Anyway if the date is such that I have the time to brew it - I'll volunteer to donate 10 gals of homebrew {under 4% ABV) which if it is provided free (suggesting a donation might raise some cash for the event) will not contravene the licensing laws.