They've got the ‘X Factor’, they've definitely got ‘The Voice’ and they are certainly good enough for ‘Britain's Got Talent’.

The only thing missing is Gareth Malone.

Well, maybe not THE TV celebrity Gareth Malone, but someone with his vision and musical expertise.

Southampton's popular barbershop choir Ocean Harmony has been steadily building a reputation of note since being formed in 2003.

Now the male a cappella choir want someone to lead them on to even bigger and better things.

Plans are already underway to compete with the country’s top choirs at this year’s Barbershop Association National Convention – ironically being staged in Gareth Malone's home town of Bournemouth in May.

The choir is continually looking to boost its membership and want an experienced director to conduct the singers and lead the already successful coaching team.

Chairman John Yapp said: “We’re looking for a chorus director to help us develop both our musical performance and our presentation so, as well as having the technical and teaching skills to be the musical and artistic leader, we’re looking for someone whose energy can lift our performance to benefit both our audiences and ourselves.”

The potential chorus director does not need to have in-depth barbershop experience but could, perhaps, have experience in another musical field which will blend with the musical team to develop the particular aspects of barbershop singing.

John added: “Ocean Harmony have enthusiastically participated at the annual convention for many years and we’re currently having external coaching sessions every month to develop our barbershop singing and presentation skills for Bournemouth in May.

“We hope that this pro-active approach to our development shows any prospective chorus director that Ocean Harmony are keen to improve and develop, whilst still retaining the friendly and welcoming atmosphere within the chorus.”

Ocean Harmony has 40 members following a recent recruitment campaign and is always on the lookout for more. Singers meet every Wednesday at Colbury Hall, Ashurst near Totton.

If you believe you have the skills to help the barbershop chorus to become a cut above the rest, or would like to join the group, contact Mike Jones at vicechairman@oceanharmony.co.uk.