If you are seeking joy, community, and an unparalleled musical experience in East London, look no further than the Hackney Voices Community Choir. Celebrating 15 years of bringing people together through song, this much-loved choir offers a vibrant, relaxed, and fully inclusive space for singers of all abilities. Whether you are an "only in the bath" singer, a would-be performer, or someone who simply feels the need for more fun in their life, this group provides an environment where your voice can thrive alongside others. Joining the choir is not just about learning songs; it is about finding a supportive community and tapping into the profound emotional and physical benefits that group singing provides.
One of the greatest appeals of the Hackney Voices Community Choir is its commitment to accessibility through the Natural Voice approach. Led by skilled Natural Voice Practitioners Cleo Bayley and Joanna Foster, the sessions are designed to be immediately welcoming. Everything is taught by ear, meaning there is absolutely no requirement to read music. This removes a significant barrier for many potential singers, allowing participants to focus solely on the pleasure of harmony and the power of their own natural instrument. Furthermore, the repertoire is wonderfully diverse, exploring the rich, vibrant musical traditions of Africa, the Caribbean, Bulgaria, Georgia, Greece, and Spain, alongside British and Celtic folk and unique arrangements of classic pop songs. This eclectic mix ensures rehearsals are always fresh, challenging, and deeply rewarding.
The mental health and well-being benefits of joining a choir are well-documented and form a powerful reason to become a member of the Hackney Voices Community Choir. Group singing is a proven mood booster; the act of singing releases endorphins, reduces the stress hormone cortisol, and encourages deep, rhythmic breathing, which has a calming effect on the nervous system. Beyond the physiological benefits, the communal aspect is transformative. Attending the weekly sessions fosters social connection, combating loneliness and providing a consistent source of positive interaction. In a relaxed, inclusive setting, singers from all walks of life come together to achieve a shared goal, creating a sense of unity and belonging that is invaluable for emotional resilience and overall happiness. The "atmosphere of joy and unity" that the choir cultivates is a powerful antidote to the pressures of modern life.
The practical details make joining the Hackney Voices Community Choir incredibly easy. The group meets every Tuesday from 7:30 PM to 9:25 PM in the beautiful acoustic space of St James the Great Church in Clapton. The venue is fully accessible, welcoming everyone into its ground-floor space. While the sessions are held in a church, the choir draws on all sacred traditions as well as secular songs and is not a religious group.
https://www.hackneyvoicescommunitychoir.co.uk
