Grand Union Community Choir - Together Through Song
About the Choir
Established in April 2009 and based in Linslade, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, the Grand Union Community Choir is a highly regarded, non-audition, all embracing choir in which any adult who wants to sing is welcomed and valued. Singers do not have to be able to read music or have any prior musical experience, they just need to be willing to participate fully in the rehearsals and to sue the support materials provided to help them with their learning. We work as a supportive team, having fun as we learn and challenge ourselves. We develop our musical skills during rehearsals and by using the music and learning tracks which are provided. All our rehearsals are recorded allowing members who miss a rehearsal to keep up with their learning.
We sing a mixed repertoire including world music, music theatre, folk, popular and contemporary classical. Being able to sing and perform together allows us to make memories, share our love of singing with others and raise money for others. We have enjoyed sharing performance platforms with ABC Big Band, Heath Band, Luton Concert Orchestra and Leighton-Linslade Gala Orchestra, as well as singing on our own.
To date we have raised over £48,000.00 for local and national charities.
The choir has performed at a variety of venues locally, nationally and even internationally. Participation in performances is optional. Our key aims are for people to find their voice, feel good, meet new friends and enjoy singing with others. Members of the choir have performed as part of the Distinguished Concerts International Singers in New York in November 2018 and in January 2024.
The choir is directed by Susan Cox an experienced vocal leader, teacher and music director who enjoys working with singers of all ages. Regular accompaniment is provided by Chris Atkinson supported by Guest Accompanist John Wearmouth.
Everyone has a voice and every voice matters! There is a place for you in the Grand Union Community Choir
CONTACT US TODAY
Scheduled Taster Sessions Available
The Benefits of Singing
Being able to perform together allows us to make memories, show our skills, share our love of singing with others and raise money for charity. This was historically achieved by physical concerts but was also achieved virtually in 2020 by those who took part in the 2.6 Challenge ‘Singing as One’ for Parkinson’s UK, our annual Christmas Brass and Voices concert with The Heath Band and our Christmas Carol Marathon. The 2.6 Challenge and the Christmas Carol Marathon brought singers from four different groups together, something which would not have been contemplated or considered before the Covid-19 Pandemic and in December we celebrated a new ‘concert first’ with The Heath Band when we jointly presented our first Online Christmas Concert.
The following benefits have been scientifically proven. Singing…
- Works the lungs, tones up facial muscles, the intercostals and diaphragm.
- Benefits cardio function by improving aerobic capacity
- Lowers blood pressure
- Relaxes overall muscle tension
- Improves posture.
- Improves sleep
- Opens up sinuses and respiratory tubes
- Releases endorphins and oxytocin
- Boosts immune system
- Increases self-esteem and confidence
- Increases feelings of wellbeing
- Increases mental alertness
- Enhances mood
- Reduces, anger, depression, and anxiety
- Reduces stress
- Stimulates creativity
- Energizes
- Alleviates loneliness
- Brings people together and creates a sense of community
- Increases empathy and understanding between cultures