The Giving Voice choir for people with neurological conditions and their carers has welcomed Kay Mellor OBE as its Patron.
Evidence suggests that singing has a positive impact on breathing, voice and overall health and well-being. Since its launch, the choir has seen its membership grow, with people from across Yorkshire making the journey to join in. Set up by Wendy Neill, a speech and language therapist at Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust, it is the only choir of this kind in Leeds and surrounding areas.
Kay, said: “I am immensely proud to be the Patron of the Giving Voice Choir. The choir offers a way for those who have had neurological issues to come together, and improve their confidence whilst having fun and learning something new in the process.
Anyone of us could find ourselves in the same situation as the members of the choir, through stroke, accident or illness. To have a facility such as Giving Voice is incredibly important and I am honoured to support them and the amazing work they do.”
Wendy Neill, who is part of the speech and swallowing team that supports people who are recovering or living with a neurological condition, said: “The choir has gone from strength to strength since we launched in June 2014 and we are all thrilled to have Kay on board as our Patron. This year we’re looking forward to doing even more performances and welcoming new members.”
Members do not need to audition or have past experience of singing in a choir, just a passion for song and enthusiasm to be part of this inclusive choir. Percussion instruments will be available for those preferring to use these as their musical vehicle.
If you would like to join the choir, email givingvoice@outlook.com or call 0113 220 8528. The group meets every Tuesday at Holy Trinity Church between 6.30pm and 8pm. The choir is in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society, Parkinson’s UK, Carers Leeds, Multiple Sclerosis Society and Arts@Trinity.
