True or false? You can improve your health by sitting and looking at a book.
Sheila Jackson, on behalf of Melksham Choral Society explains, “If the book is a musical score then it is true. It is medically proven that singing improves the health. Most people when breathing only use a quarter of their lungs, whilst singers use the whole of their lungs. By using our oxygen supply efficiently, which singers do, we automatically improve the blood supply to our hearts and that in turn improves our circulation, therefore our health is improved by sitting and singing.
“Melksham Choral is on the lookout for more singers and you do not have to be a professional, just enjoy singing There are no auditions and there are no age restrictions. All are welcome. Bach, Beethoven, Handel and Brahms are just a small part of our repertoire, we also delight in singing musical comedy, songs from shows and jazz. We are fortunate in having a professional singer as our musical director, whose patience and hard work supports and encourages us in producing a warm exciting sound.
“You cannot read music, neither can Paul McCartney, (indeed none of the Beatles) Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin, Lionel Richie and that fabulous tenor Pavarotti. Wishing to sing is the most important asset you can bring with you. You may not be able to sing the whole score! Initially when learning something new we will struggle. We are a friendly, helpful team and what one cannot sing another can. We help each other out, that is a another lovely part of being a member of our choral society. Just come along and give us a try. We meet on Thursdays on 7.30pm at the Rachel Fowler Centre in Melksham. Currently, we are practising for our concert which is to be held on Saturday 8th November, and the two main items are ‘Ode on St Cecilia’s Day’ and ‘Zadok the Priest’. A second concert is to be held in mid December, when we let our hair down.
“You may be surprised by the hard work we put in, but be prepared to laugh as much as you sing. Our rehearsals are very enjoyable and they are also an excellent way to meet others and make more friends.”
