Community Choir Success
Weston College recently launched our very own Community Choir, led by Susannah Leitch, HE Programme Co-ordinator and Lecturer in Popular Music. The choir has had a brilliant first term, meeting every week at 5.45pm to warm up, loosen up, and sing a wide range of songs together. From upbeat tunes to more relaxed melodies, each session brought something new and fun.
Before getting into the music, the choir took time to look after their voices with gentle stretches, breathing exercises, and posture work, which were perfect after a day spent at desks or in cars. These warm-ups helped everyone relax, improve their vocal techniques, and get into the right headspace for singing.
The group practiced singing both with and without sheet music, using memory and listening skills to learn harmonies, while also brushing up on music reading along the way. There was something for everyone, whether they were a confident singer or completely new to choirs.
Each session encouraged teamwork and a real sense of community. There were opportunities for solos for those who wanted to, and Susannah made sure it was a supportive space to have a go and enjoy the experience. The focus of the choir was on having fun, building confidence, and boosting mental wellbeing through music.
All in all, it’s been a fantastic start for the Weston College Community Choir, and it’s clear that this new programme has made on impact on everyone involved.
Choir Feedback:
“Thank you so much for what you did for us. I am so grateful for meeting you and learning from you! Best teacher ever!”
“Susannah is a great teacher, very pleasant and we’ve had some laughs. Very enjoyable course. Singing makes you feel great.”
“Thank you, Susannah, you are so kind and positive, it helped a lot with my nerves!”
“I found the experience very positive, coming together to have fun, meeting new people and learning music. No-one is wrong and everyone is welcome”
“I enjoyed meeting new people, learning new songs and it was fun singing at the open day”
“The camaraderie especially in the last few weeks as we got to know each other more”
“I loved being able to sing and be musical without any pressure. Very stress relieving, a great outlet.”
“The warmups were great, and especially when they linked to the song we were doing without us realising!”
“I would very much like to return to Choir in September. Please!”
“Thank you so much – Susannah was fab. Hope it continues next term.”
