It’s getting closer to the June 22nd Scotland Sings day, and I thought it may be nice if I shared some of my singing experiences with everyone…
I grew up in the little village of Neilston, learning songs through family members and school choirs etc. I was a child who sang all the time, and when I wasn’t singing I could be found listening to music or practicing guitar in my spare time. Singing was one of my favourite hobbies and it still is even though it’s also now what I do for a living.
I went from entering Burns competitions to being a BBC Young Traditional Musician of the Year semi-finalist two years in a row, and then on to doing gigs in front of large audiences…..
My friends encouraged me, and without this encouragement I may not be doing what I am today. You see, I suffered with anxiety, and lack of confidence. This in turn made everything stressful and made me very nervous and I never thought that I could do it. Singing has helped me in ways that no medication probably ever could, especially with a group of friends. Its also an opportunity to make new friends in groups, and its not just good for mental heath, but also physical health.
About two weeks ago I was feeling really stressed out with personal issues on my way to work as choir leader in the East End of Glasgow. I wasn’t looking forward to it as much as I usually do, which is a lot! We had a great laugh during the two hour session and all belted it out. When I came out I felt far more relaxed and happy, and it really hit home (even more than it had previously), what this project is all about!
Scotland Sings is a highly important project, not just for our culture here in Scotland, but worldwide for the benefits singing brings to so many people, including vulnerable people, people who have suffered various traumas in their lives, to people with mental illness etc, there is a singing group for them all, and I feel there should be more, everyone can sing and no one should be excluded!
These are my personal experiences and I am but one person……please feel free to share your experiences of how singing has helped you on the facebook page: www.facebook.com/scotlandsings
Spread the word, and let’s work together to help more people benefit from singing!Where will you be singing on June 22nd…..? 😉 Send us your event now.
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