A COMMUNITY choir has launched a new project to bring the area together through the joy of singing.
It’s hoped the ‘Singing for Wellbeing’ project, made possible through funding from the National Lottery and Penistone Ward Alliance fund, will support residents across the area.
Thurgoland Community Choir’s free initiative for participants is open to individuals aged 18 and above who may have an interest in or a passion for singing but haven’t yet found the courage to join a choir.
It is also designed for those seeking to meet new people, make friends, and explore the health benefits of singing.
Weekly meeting will be held for three months at St Andrew’s Church in Penistone, on Saturdays from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.
Hilary Osborne, the project’s director, said: “Singing for Wellbeing, an initiative of Thurgoland Community Choir, not only brings joy through music but also contributes to better health.
“Engaging in choir singing has been shown to enhance mental well-being and reduce stress.
“Research supports these benefits, demonstrating improved cardiovascular health and increased social bonding.
“We are encouraging everybody to take this opportunity and explore the positive impact of singing in our project it’ll be more than music, it will be a harmony of wellbeing.”
Trisha Monteyne, the treasurer at the choir, added: “Thurgoland Community Choir is delighted with its involvement in the ‘Singing for Wellbeing’ project.
“The initiative aligns with our goals of establishing connections with the broader, diverse community and sharing our ethos of singing for the promotion of socialisation and health benefits.
“We extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to the National Lottery Fund and Penistone Ward Alliance for the two grants that are supporting this project.
“Additionally, we express our gratitude to Thurgoland Community Choir members who have and will volunteer their time and effort, crucial to the success of the project.
“Without this collective support, the project would not be possible.”
