The Cawston Community Choir is a shining example of the power of community and music to bring people together and uplift one another. Based in the picturesque village of Cawston, Norfolk, the choir has been going from strength to strength since its inception during the coronavirus pandemic. What began as a response to the restrictions and isolation of the pandemic has blossomed into a thriving community of singers who come together every Tuesday evening to share their love of music and camaraderie. The choir is led by music director Anne Berry-Smith, accompanied by pianist David Shippey, and is based in the village’s stunning medieval church, where the Reverend Andrew Whitehead is the vicar and also a member of the choir.
The story of the Cawston Community Choir is one of hope and resilience, as the community came together to find ways to cope with the challenges of the pandemic. When restrictions were lifted, the church decided to establish a Christmas choir to remind people of the joy and good times, and it was an instant success. With 30 to 40 people attending the first meeting, the choir has continued to grow and evolve, with a diverse mix of members including primary school children, retirees, and even a Ukrainian refugee. Nobody is turned away, regardless of age or ability, and the choir has become a beacon of inclusivity and community spirit. The Reverend Whitehead notes that the choir has been a wonderful way to bring people together, and that it has been amazing to see the impact it has had on the community. As he says, “It’s been wonderful to get this far… one of the things we always knew is that singing is good for you in physical terms, mental well-being, and forging links in the community.”
One of the highlights of the choir’s journey so far was a visit from Norfolk’s Lord Lieutenant, Lady Dannatt, who attended a rehearsal and was “utterly joyful” and “completely blown away” by the experience. Lady Dannatt’s visit was a testament to the choir’s growing reputation and the impact it is having on the community. The choir has also been participating in the Cawston Music Festival, which has events running until the end of June, and has been a key part of the village’s cultural scene. As Reverend Whitehead notes, the choir has been a great way to raise aspirations and raise the profile of music in the community, and has helped to forge links between people who may not have otherwise met. The choir’s music director, Anne Berry-Smith, has also been running two choirs at the village’s primary school, funded by the community choir, which has been a wonderful way to introduce children to the joy of singing and music.
The Cawston Community Choir is a shining example of the power of music to bring people together and transcend boundaries of age, ability, and background. The choir’s members come from all walks of life, and yet they are united by their love of singing and their commitment to the community. As Reverend Whitehead notes, “Before our members joined, many of them did not know each other – now we have something really special here.” The choir’s story is a reminder that music has the power to heal, to uplift, and to bring people together in ways that nothing else can. Whether you are a seasoned singer or just looking for a new hobby, the Cawston Community Choir is a welcoming and inclusive space where you can come and share your love of music with others. As Lady Dannatt’s visit showed, the choir’s impact extends far beyond the village itself, and is a testament to the power of community and music to bring people together and create something truly special.
The Cawston Community Choir’s story is also a testament to the importance of community and social connections in our lives. In an age where we are increasingly isolated and disconnected from one another, the choir is a reminder that we are all part of a larger community, and that music and singing can be a powerful way to bring us together. As Reverend Whitehead notes, “Singing is good for you in physical terms, mental well-being, and forging links in the community.” The choir’s members have found that singing together has not only improved their mental and physical health but has also helped them to form new friendships and connections with others in the community. Whether you are looking to meet new people, improve your mental and physical health, or simply to find a new hobby, the Cawston Community Choir is a wonderful place to start.
If you are interested in learning more about the Cawston Community Choir or would like to join, you can visit their website at cawstonchoir.org.uk. The choir is always looking for new members, and nobody is turned away, regardless of age or ability. The choir’s story is a reminder that music and community are at the heart of what it means to be human, and that by coming together and sharing our love of music, we can create something truly special and meaningful. As Reverend Whitehead notes, “We have something really special here… and we want to share it with everyone.” The Cawston Community Choir is a shining example of the power of music and community to bring people together and create a sense of belonging and connection, and is an inspiration to us all to get involved and make a difference in our own communities. With its diverse mix of members, its commitment to inclusivity, and its passion for music, the Cawston Community Choir is a truly special and unique community that is worth being a part of.
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