Our Birmingham Inclusive Choir has been running for a number of years, with regular members attending each month.
We’re conscious that for some people it’s still a bit of an unknown, so we thought we’d answer some questions we are often asked…
1. What Is It?
It’s a monthly in-person session that celebrates singing and music making, offering fun music making opportunities for people with disabilities. It’s free for members to attend sessions, which last about an hour and take place at MAC Birmingham on a Saturday at 11.00, usually at the start of the month.
One of Services For Education’s charitable projects, it is delivered in collaboration with Soundabout.
2. What Can I Expect?
Lots of fun!
Sessions are delivered by experienced choir leaders in a way that meets the needs of all participants, meaning there is something for everyone. Participants can sit quietly and listen, sing and vocalise, or play one of the different instruments available; there is no pressure put on anyone to take part in a particular way. The session is shaped by the musicality, and enjoyment, of our members.
With songs including recognised children’s favourites to pop songs and original songs, the choir leaders give everyone the opportunity to get involved. Parents and carers come to the sessions too; we welcome the whole family, including siblings, creating a fun-filled group.
Alongside the monthly in-person sessions, there are also online sessions with the wider Inclusive Choir West Midlands community (more info available from choir leads at the in-person sessions). Sometimes the group also take part in videos for Soundabout or concert events for SFE which is fun and a great opportunity to perform to audiences.
3. Do I Need To Be A Musician Or Singer?
Absolutely not.
As an inclusive choir, everyone is welcome to come along, whether or not you play an instrument already or have never even picked one up before. Our songs are designed so all members are involved via musical communication and intensive interaction techniques facilitated by our three SEND music practitioners. Some members enjoy playing the instruments, whilst others prefer to take part through vocalisation.
4. What’s The Best Thing About It?
Seeing the smiles on people’s faces – not just the members themselves, but also the parents, carers and siblings who attend. Everyone enjoys coming to the group, seeing each other and learning new songs together and we love the opportunity to get on stage and perform to an audience.
For people taking part, it offers an activity they can share with others whilst developing their musical skills and experience. Our choir gives members a supportive community to feel part of, increases their confidence, and makes their voices heard.
5. Feedback
“It’s great to see J have fun in the choir sessions. He loves to sing but loves it even more when he’s with others. The fact his brother can join in too makes it even more fun for him, and me!”
“M loves being part of this group, watching others perform and interacting with them. I like how she isn’t pressured to take part but can do so how and when she feels ready.”
“Singing and dancing are two of E’s favourite things to do and the choir is a great place for everyone to be able to get involved in a way they enjoy.”
“A loves coming to the choir each month as he loves music and signing – it makes him smile.”
6. Where Can I Sign Up?
For more information about the choir, including upcoming session dates, and to sign up, click here.
