Ever thought about singing in a choir but were afraid to try? The BBC is there to help make the way plain

Ever thought about singing in a choir, but weren't sure you're up to the challenge? The BBC has some video tools to help -- six, excellent online tutorials that range from the very basics to some more advanced tips and techniques.

I laughed to myself when I discovered a whole maze of BBC features and resources devoted to the choral world in the United Kingdom. Imagine our dear, despoiled, wraithlike CBC being able to manage something like this!

Before Christmas, the BBC sent out a call to all U.K. choirs and their fans to submit video clips of performances of the Hallelujah Chorus, which have been compiled into a snapshot of choral life today. The broadcaster has launched its annual choral competition. There is also a wealth of background information on the BBC website.

This is the very best of what the Internet can do to promote active participation in musikmaking. Hear that, CBC?

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Speaking of the CBC, the broadcaster's website has a wealth of concerts on demand. One of the best recent Toronto Symphony Orchestra concerts -- featuring violinist James Ehnes -- is listed. For two weeks I've been trying to listen to it but have not been able to get any music at all from the site.

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In the spirit of choral fun, here's a high-energy performance by the Mully Children's Family Choir from Kenya, caputred in amateur video at Leaside High School last fall: