For the Love of CHOIRS!

Page Design by Isla McCormack

There are many benefits of singing in a choir, whether they’re mental, physical or musical. More generally, music has been proved to be an effective pain relief due to the release of endorphins, as well as improving the immune system - according to studies by Oxford University. Singing takes it one step further, with reports that people feel more positive after singing than they do after casually listening to music. But what’s so special about singing as part of a choir? Community has been essential to our survival since the dawn of time, and although singing might not be vital to our survival, the sense of collaboration and understanding that is formed between choir members definitely adds to the human experience. I can attest to the claims that singing in choirs can improve one’s mental well-being, having been in choirs since I could talk. Singing has been close to my heart for as long as I can remember, and it’s a gift that contributes to some of the happiest moments of my life. Being part of an A Cappella group has been my biggest challenge in collaboration; every voice must be accounted for, and works towards creating a unified sound that performing with instruments just doesn’t provide. Every decision we make on stage works in tandem with the rest of the group; from taking a breath at the right time, to coordinating our moments in choreography. It doesn’t matter how many people might be in the audience - catching the eye of someone in the group mid-song steadies my mind and I can never help but leave the stage with the biggest smile on my face. Even after the most stressful rehearsal - one where everything goes wrong - there seems to be a restorative effect of singing with my friends that leaves me bounding out of the rehearsal room every time.

Without a doubt, being a part of a choir can be incredibly empowering to all of its members; this is due to the huge amount of love and positivity that is experienced when being a participating member. Nothing beats the feeling of achieving something in a collaborative nature, and being part of a choir does exactly this. As humans it is inevitable that we strive to appreciate the joy and creativity that music brings; it is just a “feel good feeling” that we cannot ignore. Choirs can be seen as the perfect opportunity to bring people together in an environment that is safe and non-judgemental. It is a place not only to sing and share the same love for music, but to bring people together and create friendships that last a life time. Singing as a group can bring so much joy, as well as having beneficial impacts for people’s well-being. Being part of a choir has so many positive impacts on your mental health, it has been proven to release stress and strengthen self-worth. Due to the supportive nature every member is loved and valued, being part of a choir has the power to positively boost your mood. The reason why people have so much love for choirs is due to the huge amount of diversity and inclusivity that is supported. No matter your age, experience or background, everyone will be welcomed. There is a huge sense of belonging when being part of a choir and this in turn increases peoples own confidence. Choirs bring local communities together, as well as people from all around the world. Virtual Choirs were set up during the COVID-19 pandemic, which further allowed for individuals and communities to come together and sing. You will never feel alone when you are a member of a choir, as it seeks to promote the sense of belonging and love.

The existence of Choirs only encourages love amongst its members and if you ever get a chance to join one I would highly recommend it, as I am sure you will not regret it.

Words by Katie Storrie

Words by Sophie Revell