Launch of new choir for people affected by suicide
A new community choir providing support and a social outlet through music for those affected by suicide, will be officially launched in Wexford Arts Centre on Sunday, August 26 at 7.30pm.
People interested in joining Rising Voices are invited along to the launch to meet the founders and to hear about its origins and plans for the future.
Live music performances will be presented by Michael D’Arcy, Rachel Grace and Imelda Kehoe and light refreshments will be served.
The inspiration for the project has come from Wexfordman Mark Ennis in honour of his brother Barry Ennis who died in early 2017 and it is supported by counsellor and career/life coach Leonard Kelly.
Rising Voices plans to meet fortnightly on Tuesdays from 8pm to 9.30 pm in An Tobar in Westgate Heritage Centre and the group will be facilitated by Aideen Ní Riada, vocal coach and singer. Michael D’Arcy, musician and singer and Leonard Kelly, a founder of Community Minds.
The unique project is being established to bring together people who have been affected by the suicide of loved ones, family or friends, to allow them to sing, have fun and possibly perform.
The focus will be on singing in an inclusive and supportive group that will allow the individuals to get to know each other in an informal setting and open up about their experiences if and when they are ready.
Local musicians will be invited to go along on some evenings to inspire and encourage the singers and help them to learn original songs by the bands or solo artists. The group may cowrite an original song of their own and potentially record backing vocals on a fundraising album of original songs by local artists related to the theme of hope following tragic loss due to suicide.