Virtual choir is worth singing about

An Aberdeen University music student has helped launch a virtual choir to help his fellow students during lockdown.

Anthony White set up the group, which allows members to interact with renowned composers through virtual workshops.

He has also written his own new music dedicated to the NHS.

The virtual choir, Vox Ex Animo, is just one of the university’s attempts to come up with creative ways for students to enjoy their study experience.

Second-year music student Mr White, who launched the choir with a friend, said: “Lockdown has imposed restrictions on many people globally, but one thing that unites us all is music.

“While face-to-face options may not be possible for a while, the Covid-19 restrictions are opening up lots of other opportunities.

“Thanks to technology I’ve not only been able to keep in contact with people and friends, but also to carry on making music my own way – learning from some of the very best in the business.”

Renowned composers such as Steve Price, Olafur Arnalds, and Rachel Portman have already taken part in the Zoom workshops.

Now involved with a mentorship scheme, each week the aspiring composer has had meetings with his mentee.

Mr White added: “Since launching this project we have had musicians who have joined from all over the UK and parts of Europe with a commitment to make music to sing choral works that we all like and to support one another during these challenging and unprecedented times.”