The choir offers classes for children in groups based on their age. Two are for very young children - the playgroup singing class (ages two-31/2) and the nursery choral class (ages three to four). More age-based classes are available for children aged between five and 16.

'The classes for the younger children are smaller and there is more physical activity to keep them interested.

'The children get to use percussion instruments to develop a feeling for the rhythms in music and they do some art and craft activities with music always playing in the background,' Tong says.

The playgroup and nursery classes involve 15, one-hour lessons and cost HK$3,000. Parents are required to attend playgroup classes with their child.

The choral classes for older children are conducted on weekdays and at weekends. Two months of weekday classes cost HK$780. Weekend classes cost HK$1,020. The classes run for one to two hours depending on the level and age of the students.

In the preparatory course, children start to develop a sense of rhythm and basic singing skills.

They also start to develop listening skills, which will help them stay in tune as they get older. They are encouraged to play with sounds through a range of physical activities.

In the junior course, children start to learn the mechanics of voice production and how to breathe correctly while singing. Pitch accuracy is developed and children recite lyrics in a rhythmic way. They also listen to a variety of melodies to increase music appreciation.

In the intermediate course, children are given more intensive vocal training so they can develop their singing skills to a higher level. They also sing in different languages.

Preparatory and junior courses have weekly one-hour classes and cost HK$450 per month. The intermediate course has a weekly two-hour class and costs HK$760 per month.

Course fees are required to be paid monthly. The classes take place at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui.