Singers across Central Scotland are being sought to help belt out some simple feel-good numbers as part of a massed choir event. The request is being made by FDAMH (Falkirk’s Mental Health Association) who are planning a ‘big sing’ in the atrium at Forth Valley Royal Hospital.
Whether soprano or mezzo, alto or bass, or even if you just enjoy singing in the bath, the invitation is designed to showcase how music can be uplifting, especially for people with mental health problems. The performance will take place on the evening of Wednesday 5th October 2016 and is part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts and Film Festival and a pre-cursor to World Mental Health Day.
Organiser Emily Stewart, who is FDAMH’s Activities and Arts Co-ordinator, is hoping around 100 people will turn up to perform a selection of songs including John Lennon’s ‘Imagine.’
She said: “The idea behind Raise Your Voice is to boost people’s self confidence by getting them to sing in public. Singing is good for your breathing and helps you relax. Becoming part of a choir is also a good way of making friends and forming positive relationships. I set up a FDAMH choir earlier this year which now has 20 members and for many, singing has put them on the path to recovery and brought hope and happiness to those lacking confidence and self-belief.”
There will be one major rehearsal before the night itself led by musician and song writer Kim Edgar and anyone interested in taking part will also be able to download sound files from Dropbox so they can practice. Those who aren’t computer savvy can ask for a CD to be sent to them, or copies of sheet music. Emily has already contacted a wide range of choirs from across Forth Valley with the help of retired music teacher Mariot Dallas.
The pop, world and folk songs chosen will be based on the theme ‘time’ and Emily says that even if people can’t sing, they are welcome to come along and hum to a repertoire of hits from groups such as Take That.
The event takes place on the evening of Wednesday October 5th 2016 at Forth Valley Royal Hospital and for more details, including how to download sound files, please contact Emily Stewart on emily.stewart@fdamh.org.uk or phone 01324 671 600.
Issued by NHS Forth Valley’s Communications Department – 01786 457243.