Cantiones finally enjoys the Sound of Music!

Following the results of research into aerosol transmission of Covid-19 as it relates to speaking, singing and playing woodwind and brass instruments new guidance was published by the Government allowing amateur choirs to meet and rehearse. Of course there were very strict rules to be adhered to and procedures to follow so Cantiones’ Chairman, Paul Myres created a comprehensive Risk Assessment for the choir before inviting everyone to join together to sing outside in the garden of one of the choir members. More than half the choir felt that sufficient safety measures had been put in place to attend and everyone who came was delighted to be singing again. Of course it was initially quite odd to be singing 2 metres from anyone else but it soon started to feel less difficult, especially with the encouragement of Martin.
Choirs’ inability to sing together has been challenging as the benefits of singing as a group are well documented. Singers mention the formation of social bonds, emotionally connecting many individuals simultaneously, social interaction and a sense of belonging, improvement of breathing, posture and muscle tension, improving self-esteem, and self-confidence as some of the reasons group singing is so enjoyable. In fact Cantiones members have said they enjoy meeting up with like-minded people, a sense of achievement after a good rehearsal, a sense of common purpose and a contribution to well-being by stress-busting and keeping the mind active. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed raising their voices on such a sunny day and looks forward to meeting again later this month.
- Published on 1st September 2020