As Choir of Hard Knocks and Sydney Street Choir founder Jonathan Welch says, “Singing for an hour a week in a choir has now been scientifically proven to help build your immune system and fight cancer, build neural pathways for those who’ve had strokes and can't speak ... the list goes on.” It’s also anecdotally proven to make you feel happy.
Inner Westies can check out Newtown’s Welcome Choir, which meets monthly and is open to people who love singing and are willing to learn the lyrics – you don’t need to audition, you don’t even need to be able to read music.
“We want to offer a place that is also safe for greater diversity,” says co-founder Betty Judd. Lead by musical director Bek Jensen, the 30-or-so regulars have a feelgood repertoire that includes Adele, Fleetwood Mac, Outkast, Prince and Madonna.
Like singing in a relaxed environment? Check out Sydney Flash Mob Choir.