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A choir or singing group is the typical method of bringing people together to share in song. Nearly all the research into the well-being benefits of singing is carried out in a group or choir setting. This is perhaps due to the ‘ice-breaking effect’ that singing together has been described as.
But even with a choir, there can be may different variations of format and style. Is it a chamber choir, of up to around 40 members singing mainly classical or church music, or is it a pop choir singing contemporary songs a cappella?
Choirs may or may not include the use of sheet music and may call the different sections (voice parts) by a range of different terms (low, mid and high for example, or soprano, alto, tenor and bass). The range of options for a choir mean that it could potentially present barriers, or be somewhere we musical identities and interests could flourish.
Benefits
A larger group can help you to feel less vulnerable and exposed when singing
The potential for creating a rich and powerful sound could harness positive emotions
The social connections could be broader and more varied – bringing together children and young people from across age and friendship groups
Things to Consider
Is the repertoire relevant and interesting to children and young people in the setting?
Have you consulted with children and young people about what they would like to gain from being in a choir?
What is the recruitment strategy? Is there a risk that choir will predominantly attract CYP already engaged in musical activities?
Does the time of day make it accessible to all?
Is ‘choir’ the most appropriate and relevant name, or could CYP come up with something more creative?
The young people that are attending music sessions at the moment, I know are benefiting massively from it.
Lizzy Watkiss, Occupational Therapist