Banbury singers invite new members in drive to improve mental health

The Society is extolling the benefits of singing to anyone who would like to join the group. And they are convinced that for the one in six people in Banbury who will have experienced a common mental health problem in the last week, singing may be a great way to improve things.

The statistic comes from a national survey by the Mental Health Foundation.

Those with mild conditions can feel huge advantage from taking part in an activity they enjoy, to practice mindfulness and to try to socialise.

The Sing-Up Foundation says singing in a group combines all three of these approaches – and improves physical wellbeing.

“Singing lowers cortisol and relieves stress and tension. Studies have shown that when people sing, endorphins and oxytocin are released by the brain which in terns lowers stress and anxiety levels," said a Society spokesman.

“Oxytocin also enhances feelings of trust and bonding which also explains the reports that singing also improves depression and feelings of loneliness.”

Some of the members of Banbury Choral Society have been aware of the benefits of singing for more than 50 years.

Jill Gainey from Twyford - a member for 52 years - said: "I can’t think of a better hobby. It’s also a good tonic if you are feeling ‘down in the dumps’. There is rarely an evening when you don’t have a few laughs. I have learnt so much more about classical music and am actually still learning. As long as I am in good voice I hope to keep singing."

Phyllida Walker from Woodford Halse has been a member for over 30 years. She said: “It’s been a big part of my adult life. I’ve made so many friends and it’s kept me physically and mentally active. I can’t imagine not singing and not going to choir to be honest.”

The choir has a membership of about seventy singers from all walks and stages of life and from all over Banburyshire. There are a number of husband and wife teams that sing too. Well-known local writer Felix Francis is its President.

Elizabeth Grint, Middleton Cheney resident and chair of the choral society, says people love having the ability to switch off from their lives and immerse themselves in making music with other people.

“The benefits of music making are endless; it exercises the brain as well as the body and is particularly beneficial for improving breathing, posture and muscle tension. Learning new repertoire is stimulating and certainly helps the brain and the satisfaction of singing together is inspiring!”

Conductor Julian Harris is particularly keen to emphasise the choir’s work with young people and has seen the dramatic impact music can have on their lives and their well-being.

As well as Banbury Choral Society he conducts two other choirs and tutors GCSE and A-Level students in music theory, piano, singing and composition.

"You can’t over-estimate the importance of music to education but also to lifelong learning," he said.

“I love watching young people grow in confidence as they develop their musical skills. And the interaction with older members of the choir who can offer support and experience too.”

Banbury Choral Society launched a Youth Outreach Scheme in 2012 and has supported a number of students with bursaries towards their musical education and given them expert tutoring and support from Mr Harris .

And though Mr Harris has played and conducted all over Europe in major concert halls - including St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, Westminster Abbey, St Paul's Cathedral, Queen Elizabeth and Cadogan Halls in London and at the RSC - he says there’s something special about Banbury.

“It’s amazing that we have so many singers who have been with us so long - almost since we were founded in 1942 - and lots of new faces and young singers too.

“Coming together to create beautiful music breaks down all barriers and you can see friendships and connections being made that may not otherwise happen.”

The choir meets every week at Marlborough Road Methodist Church. It’s supportive and friendly and welcomes singers of all ages. No audition is required, just enthusiasm. Find out more at www.banburychoralsoc.co.uk.

Future plans include JS Bach’s masterpiece St John’s Passion on Saturday, April 4 at St Mary’s Church and for the first time singing Choral Eucharist and Evensong at Coventry Cathedral in July.

And if you can’t make it to choir, the Sing-Up Foundation advises that even singing in the shower or along with the radio, can boost your mood and lift your spirits.

For more help and support with mental health issues visit https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/