Palmers Green is the location of the latest ‘R’ Voices Choir - there are now ten choirs rehearsing and performing across north London and Hertfordshire.
“A brilliant, non-conformist suburban choir of everyday people.” — TimeOut
‘R’ Voices Choir is “a warm, welcoming, and inclusive community of people” who get together once a week to sing songs. There are no auditions, and no musical experience is necessary to become a member. They don't wear matching T-shirts or perform choreography. They are, however, definitely not boring!
Expect an electric, expansive repertoire of songs by classic artists such as Chaka Khan, Fleetwood Mac, Lizzo, Oasis, Nina Simone, Elvis, Beyoncé, the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Radiohead, and more.
This expanding community started at Starfish Coffee ten years ago. After quickly outgrowing their first rehearsal space, they moved to Winchmore Hill and now have 10 choirs across North London, Hertfordshire and Palmers Green!
“The nucleus of my choir is the community, within it and around it,” says Richard Forbes, founder and director of ‘R’ Voices. “I’ve lived here all my life, and I feel strongly that Palmers Green has a strong sense of community, a healthy multicultural identity, and a strong artistic presence among its people.”
The choirs perform at festivals, charity events, pubs, and theatres, and pride themselves on combining fun with charity fundraising all year round.
“I think it’s really important to realise that there is so much to gain from being in a choir beyond the singing… No one in my choir has walked in claiming to be anything special, but they have all made new friends, connected with other people, raised their self-esteem, improved their wellbeing, contributed to others, and created and experienced a lot of joy!”
Group singing is proven to be good for your health, with recent studies showing that it boosts immune function, reduces stress, fosters social bonds, acts as a natural antidepressant, improves lung capacity, and provides community support.
“A lot of us realise as we get older that you don’t necessarily have to be good at something (by your own judgement) to: a) do it, and b) enjoy it! Singing is a visceral act, connecting us emotionally and physically. It’s so good for you!”
The choir meets on Monday nights in Palmers Green from 7.30–9pm. It is currently in the back room of the Fox pub, but moves to Palmers Green United Reformed Church on the corner of Fox Lane and Burford Gardens from 6th July.
Everyone gets a free taster session.
Check the website for details:
