The Solace Choir

Who can participate?

This choir is open to self-identifying woman survivors aged 18+, including cis women, trans women and non-binary survivors who are comfortable in an environment that centres women’s experience. No previous musical experience is required.

A support worker is present throughout all sessions*. Sessions are free and travel reimbursement is available.

What will happen?

In weekly sessions you will have the opportunity to meet other survivors and develop your musicianship, singing, voice work and creativity. The open and fun nature of the choir allows members to input your ideas and make decisions about song choices, performances and activities. Sessions will be suitable for both complete beginners and for those who have experience in music and singing. This project is running in partnership with Music Broth and sessions are facilitated by the wonderful Grace Dale.

When?

Weekly sessions will take place on Thursday evenings, 6.30pm - 8.00pm, from the 2nd of May until the 20th June (2nd May, 9th May, 16th May, 23rd May, 30th May, 6th June, 13th June and 20th June).

There will be the optional opportunity to perform with the choir in June.

Where?

Music Broth, Govanhill: 7, Hollybrook Place, Glasgow, G42 7HB. There is parking outside the venue and from the city centre the most direct bus is the number 75 or the number 7. But, you can also get the number 57 bus or the train from Central to Crosshill and walk a short distance. Travel reimbursement is available, including for taxis if required.

If you have any questions or would like further information, please feel free to email us at: [email protected].

*These are creative group sessions, if you are seeking direct, individual support please contact your local Women's Aid or Rape Crisis centre, or access an online chat (https://chat.womensaid.org.uk/ OR https://rapecrisis.org.uk/get-help/live-chat-helpline/about-the-live-chat-helpline/)

2023 choir members said:

'It is hard to contain my enthusiasm and sheer joy about the choir sesisons. I have never sung in a choir before and have never performed in front of a live audience but both experiences have been uplifting and wonderful. I have also met and interacted with a fantastic and warm group of women (special mention of Grace our choir master :). Words on a page cannot express the joys of singing in a group, the joy of creating deep and nourishing human connections that are sadly lacking in this world of faces on screens. This experience has taught me that as a survivor I can sing to lift my pain and this is a gift that I will treasure through the hard times.'

'The choir sessions have provided a much-needed space for me to socialize and interact with other people. Thursdays have become a day that I look forward to, as I consider it a form of self-care and a safe space for me to express myself. Grace has made it very interesting personally, valuing each and everyone's opinion and making me feel valued.'

'I have had a wonderful time attending the choir sessions. Each week has been enjoyable and there is a a good bond and feeling of togetherness amongst the participants. It's amazing to see survivors uniting their voices through means of singing and songs, and watching confidence grow as the project continued.'

Host or Publisher The Survivor Arts Community