Musicality
Its official, singing in a choir improves the way you hear music, it draws out your
innate musical ability and intensifies your appreciation of harmony. There is a
natural learning curve that occurs quite organically as a consequence of singing
regularly in a group that strengthens your ear. Where choral singing is
concerned, the whole really is the sum of its parts, and choir members soon
become aware of how harmonies combine and complement each other.
Mental Health
Professor Grenville Hancox, Director of the Sidney de Haan Research Centre for
Arts and Health in Kent, has done extensive research on the benefits of choral
singing on psychological well-being.He is so passionate about the enormous
emotional benefits of choral singing,he has been trying to persuade the medical
profession to prescribe singing instead of Prozac:
“If we could engage more and more people in singing, I’m sure we would
have a healthier nation.”
Studies have shown that the mental health benefits of choral singing include
enhanced brain function, strengthened feelings of togetherness, and the release
of endorphins and oxytocin resulting in reduced stress and depression.
Confidence
It’s surprising how many people are told at school they can’t sing, a myth that
can discourage potential singers for decades. Most people don’t imagine they
will ever perform in front of an audience, and to experience this for the first time
as part of a choir can be life changing.The truth is that, unless there is hearing
loss, anyone can learn to sing. Singing in a community choir gives you
permission to make noise as part of group, and choir leaders report witnessing
new members’ confidence grow rapidly.
Belonging
The modern world is one where people are increasingly isolated. Social media
networks offers a semblance of community but the lack of contact with people in
real time and space can intensify feelings of alienation. Singing has been central
to religion and ritual as a way of connecting communities since ancient times.
Being part of a group working towards a shared endeavour, can fulfil this human
need for belonging and union.
Recent research reveals that group singing helps forge social bonds, and it does
so particularly quickly, acting as a powerful icebreaker. People feel valued and
inevitably make friends with individuals from a diversity of backgrounds, so
horizons are broadened and social cohesion is improved.
Aerobic and toning
A proper singing session is a wonderful workout for the lungs. The actions of
warming up, breathing deeply and opening the diaphragm all oxygenate the
blood, creating more white blood cells, which strengthens the whole body.The
breathing rate slows and deepens, releasing endorphins and increasing a
profound sense of well-being. All this lung action reduces the chance of illness
and is excellent for people who suffer asthma, and emphysema.
Singing also improves your posture and tones your stomach muscles – a strong
core supports the spine so your body will be less prone to injury as you age.
