Marking World Mental Health Week and National Choral Singing Week.

On Friday October 9th Cork International Choral Festival invited visitors to Civic Trust House for a lunchtime sing-along in celebration of National Choral Singing Week. Musical Director Liz Powell of the Association of Irish Choirs led a performance of Louis Armstrong's What a Wonderful World in the main room of this historic house from 1-1.30pm. It was a free event where no previous experience was required and all were welcome!

Choral events have been organised all over the country by choirs, schools and other groups to mark World Mental Health Week and to highlight the fact that choral singing is good for your mental health.

Recent studies have shown that singing improves lung capacity, stimulates high energy, relieves asthma, improves posture, improves relaxation and mood and increases self-confidence. 89 percent of the singers surveyed report intense happiness while singing, 79 percent feel less stressed, with 75 percent experiencing heightened adrenaline and wakefulness. Being involved in a choral group has been proven to reduce isolation and loneliness and generate feelings of well-being.

Most of all, singing is a fun activity which throughout the ages and across the world has brought communities together, so why not come together more often to share in the spirit of song!

Click here for more information on National Choral Singing Week and World Mental Health Week.

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