A new uplifting choir is launching in Leeds with the emphasis on helping people feel brighter and make new friends.
The People’s Show Choir(TPSC), part of The People’s Orchestra national charity that helps to reduce social isolation and improve lives through music and training, is expanding into Leeds.
The new choir launches on Monday(September 21) for regular singers or beginners, of all ages. There’s no pressure to be able to read music or if members can’t make every rehearsal.
Singers will meet at Oakwood Church, in Springwood Road, Roundhay on Monday nights during term time from 7.30pm to 9pm.
Organisers are appealing to locals living from across Leeds including in Roundhay, Chapel Allerton, Moortown and beyond to get involved. Anyone interested can even sign up for two free taster sessions at the TPSC website to try out the group before they decide whether to continue.
Leeds TPSC Choir Leader Elizabeth Cunningham said:
People can expect a choir that is all about community and a lot of fun.
Although Leeds has a few choirs already The People’s Show Choir is unique. We’ll be performing contemporary songs of pop hits and songs from musicals and films, but the emphasis is on enjoying yourself in a relaxed atmosphere and making new friends, not just the singing.
It’s more about people coming along to have a safe space to create music together.
Music has always been important to me, so I know the benefits of it. It helps me be calm.
There is something so calming and grounding about music.
Elizabeth, originally from South Lincolnshire, came to Leeds to study at university. She did a degree in Classical Singing before a Masters in Conducting. Her partner Sam will be accompanying the choir on piano at the rehearsals.
As a music lover, Elizabeth is a big fan of seeing musicals at the theatre. One of her all-time favourites is Come From Away, which she saw five times in London’s West End. The 26-year-old also adores musical Finding Neverland, written by Gary Barlow, so is thrilled with the range of songs the choir will be performing in coming months.
TPSC, which already has a similar choir in York, is well known for having a set list that includes uplifting songs from Elton John to S Club 7.
It also gives singers the rare chance to perform at iconic venues in the UK and go on annual choir tours abroad
I’m really looking forward to the music we’ll be singing especially the Christmas songs in this first term, added Elizabeth.
There will be the chance to do concerts, form new friendships and escape from regular life for a few hours to be around people who enjoy doing the same thing as you.
Regular singers in TPSC span mums who want to have some ‘me time’ to older people living alone and want a place to socialise and have fun. There’s also many students and families who come together to enjoy some quality time doing an activity.
Anyone interested can turn up at a Monday rehearsal at Oakwood Church in Roundhay at 7.30pm and speak to Elizabeth, or register ahead through The People’s Show Choir website at https://thepeoplesorchestra.com/the-peoples-show-choir/
