Singing for Fun
This group was one of the earliest groups in our u3a and was started by Lorna and Lizzie who both sing with the Fairburn Singers. Singing in a group has so many benefits both for mental and physical health. The object is for everyone to feel uplifted and to be smiling by the end of each session.
The Singing for Fun Group meets at 10.45am on the second Wednesday and fourth Wednesday of each month at St Mary's Church, South Milford.
This lively group sings a mix of traditional songs and songs from the musicals, as well as pop songs from their youth and they’ve even been known to give some modern songs the ‘singing for fun’ magic.
Additionally, a range of Vocal Techniques and Textures are used to add variation to the styles of singing:
- Unison & Octaves: All singers sing the exact same melody at the same time or an octave apart to create a powerful, unified sound.
- Harmonies: The choir splits into Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass) to create rich chords.
- Polyphony Songs: Different sections of the choir sing completely independent, overlapping melodies or distinct songs simultaneously.
- Building Arrangements: Instead of starting with the full choir, a song can begin with a small group, gradually bringing in the rest of the voices as the song progress
- Vocal Substitutions: Sections of a verse can be varied by swapping lyrics for humming, or singing in nonsense syllables (e.g., "Ooo" or "Ahh")
The Singing for Fun group often performs for other groups such as dementia support groups, care homes and even for the Regional Summer u3a event.
There is no requirement to read music, to join this group,, although it helps; if you love singing, I guarantee you’ll receive a warm welcome from this friendly group.
Contact one of the group leaders Lorna Pope for more information