Why we love singing for our patients and raising money for good causes

Altnagelvin Hospital Choir is celebrating its 25th anniversary at the Guildhall with a performance of Vivaldi’s Gloria, and The Sparrows’ Anthem, a specially commissioned piece by composer Anselm McDonnell and poet Sam Burnside. Linda Stewart talks to three choir members about their passion for music

“Within your voice group, whether you’re tenor or soprano, people get to know each other. I’ve got to know people who work in other parts of the trust who I would otherwise never have known or met. We have a two-hour rehearsal, then we break for buns and tea, and hen rehearse until 10pm.

“What I’ve often felt about singing, and I’ve said it a few times when I wanted to get across to people what it means to me, is a quote that is attributed to a jazz musician: ‘The music washes the everyday dust off your feet.’ After a rehearsal, no matter how stressful it was, if you felt tired, you feel less tired.

“You need something outside your job, whether it’s running or singing — something with humanity and something that clears your mind again. Singing together is special and there are a lot of personal and social benefits that come from it; it does bring me some relief.

“The choir got charitable status in 2016 and we’ve been raising money ever since we started 25 years ago. Last year we were able to donate £3,000 to Air Ambulance NI.

“So, the choir is about providing an outlet for staff members, providing a service to the community and sharing music with and giving an opportunity for people to take part.

“We sing at the trust’s intensive care memorial service once a year; it’s a beautiful event with a number of reflections. We also sing carols around the wards at Christmas each year, and Still The Night in the intensive care unit is quite a special moment.”