Why should choir leaders treat wellbeing and mental health as central elements to their group singing work? We reflect on over ten years of group singing and the lessons we've learnt from our members on how to approach members' wellbeing and mental health safely and effectively.

In over ten years of community singing with Starling Arts, we have witnessed the tremendous impact of singing on individuals and groups, and it has become increasingly important to us that wellbeing and mental health become integral and important considerations to all aspects of our work.

Many individual singers testify that singing has had a beneficial impact on their mental health and wellbeing, so it could be assumed that the benefits come as a natural by-product of the work of choirs. However, from our experience wellbeing and mental health need to be carefully considered and built into the structures and practices of a singing group in order to achieve safe, long-lasting, and powerful effects. Read our post for ideas and suggestions to boost your choir’s wellbeing.