Harbour Voices

dir.: Sarah Boyle

Ensemble type: Choir

The Harbour Voices choir is free to attend and refreshments are provided.

The Harbour Voices choir started in 2021 with the support of a Culture Collective grant from the Scottish Government via Creative Scotland. The grant was aimed at bringing communities back together post covid.

At a time when it was sometimes hard to talk about what we were all experiencing, a community choir provided a supported space where people could come together and simply sing. The aim of the choir was to help combat social isolation and improve mental health and wellbeing.

"I really enjoy choir. It’s helped me to develop more confidence and I feel like a I have a voice. I feel part of a supported community which is safe and trusted. I feel choir has helped me grow, and singing helps combat anxiety. I’ve made some new friends. Lovely people. Thank you."

Research by The British Academy of Sound Therapy demonstrates that singing for pleasure reduces cortisol levels associated with stress. Bupa and the British Lung Foundation encourage singing in groups as part of a holistic approach towards staying healthy, both physically and mentally. We create a fun atmosphere so beginners feel welcome and confident.

"Harbour Voices choir is a safe harbour. There, I feel happy and refreshed."

The Harbour Voices choir has gone from strength to strength. We are made up of residents from the Fittie and Torry harbourside communities in Aberdeen, but we are open to all, and everyone is welcome to sing with us in a fun and supportive environment. Complete beginners to seasoned singers are welcome. Refreshments are provided, and there is plenty of time to chat.

"This type of community helps people feel they have a purpose in their lives."

Our Choir Leader is Sarah Boyle. Find out more about Sarah on our Meet the Team page. If you have any questions, Sarah can be contacted via email found on our website.

The Harbour Voices choir is free to attend. We rely on funding to keep it going and keep communities singing. If you would like to support the choir, please get in touch via our website.

"Going along to Fittie choir and singing with friends and neighbours, old and new, has been such a welcome addition to my life. I always leave feeling energised and so much more relaxed than when I went in! The sheer joy of singing together has really helped members bond and develop friendships."