Singing groups are a vital part of Lancashire’s cultural scene, but like everything, the pandemic has had a profound effect on choirs, not least on their ability to meet and rehearse, but also how they work and on their membership numbers. Some groups have struggled to maintain membership and momentum through the challenges of COVID. It has been a strange change from singing being something many take part in to benefit their health, to it being seen as a potential risk.
We’d like to get a clearer picture of where we are now. We want to assess the impact to look to how we can support and advocate for a safe, inclusive and thriving future for vocal music in Lancashire.
We are asking Lancashire community / non-professional / education choirs, choruses and singing groups to complete a short survey on how COVID has impacted them. It should take no more than a couple of minutes to complete, but there is space for you to write more if you want to tell us more about your experience.
We’re interested in hearing from groups enjoying different genres. You don’t need to be a ‘formal’ choir. You could also include other vocal styles like rap and beatboxing.
We are looking for responses from districts across the Lancashire County Council area, as well as those within the unitary authorities of Blackburn with Darwen, and Blackpool.
Find out more and take the Holding Our Breath Survey