Like to sing? You’re not alone. According to The Chorus Impact Study, research funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, one in six adults – nearly 54 million – participate in choral groups…and it’s not just for fun.

According to the study, there are wide ranging benefits to singing with a troupe, including both a better quality of life and better health – even improving the immune system – than the general population…and meeting new people!

In addition, nearly three quarters of choristers (72%) believe being in a chorus increases their overall optimism about life, making them less likely to experience symptoms of depression.

Virtual singing in groups

Want to get started but don’t know how? Maggie Rothwell, host of Senior Planet’s own Online Open Mic, says joining an online singing group may be the best way to get your feet wet. “It’s a unique and wonderful way for seniors to make connections and build friendships through music,” she says.

“From performers to audience members, we’re one big team, cheering each other on and singing along from the comforts of our own homes. We have our `regulars,’ who everyone looks forward to hearing, and we always have our arms open for new people to join our growing musical family. Senior Planet’s songwriting night group is another great way to express and connect to others through music. Singing feels good, lifts spirits, and lets us get to know each other in a special way. The response to our music programs has been overwhelmingly positive and the smiles can last for days,” she adds.

Want to know more about making a musical connection?  Visit Senior Planet’s dedicated music page here. 

Singing in Person

For those who would like to meet in person, try websites like Singers.com or choirplace.com and see what type of singing suits you.  Group singing can be as close as a local park or house of worship (especially as we near the holidays!)  – or as far away as Portugal, Sicily or Venice (courtesy of Singing Holidays, which offers specialized travel packages for would be singers).

For other opportunities closer to home, try these:

Sweet Adelines International

Sweet Adelines International (#SweetAdelines) founded in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1945, is the world’s largest singing organization for women. With over 16,000 members in 18 countries, their mission is “elevating women singers worldwide through education, performance, and competition in barbershop harmony and a cappella music.”

“Singing with Sweet Adelines brings joy to our members’ lives, along with providing opportunities to grow musically, in community, and in leadership skills, says Kim Berrey, director of marketing.  She adds that singing can lead to benefits in physical, emotional, and social health including strengthening the immune system, helping with sleep, boosting confidence, lowering stress and releasing endorphins, the feel-good brain chemical.

One member described her 50 years of membership with Sweet Adelines: “It’s been life changing to say the least! Memories, dedication, music, friendships, love and laughter. Plus pushing myself to do things I would have never done. When you share our craft and love of singing, everything bad in the world goes away.”

Encore Creativity for Older Adults

Encore Creativity for Older Adults, a nonprofit choral arts organization specifically for adults 55 and over, boasts more than 40 ensembles (and growing!) in 10 states and Washington, D.C. Membership stands at 1,831 with singers ages 55 to 99.

Programs include Encore Chorales: traditional choirs and Encore ROCKS: singing hits from the 50s, 60s, among others.

“Our ensembles are the perfect way to unite in the friendship and community that singing builds,” says Joshua Vickery, CEO of Encore Creativity. “There are so many physical, mental, and emotional benefits from singing, and we are honored to help create a world where all older adults have a place in the arts.”

No audition or experience are necessary, and members don’t even need to read music! Singers may be seated or standing for all ninety-minute rehearsals and performances.

Vickery says while it’s too late to join a choir for the holidays, folks should check out their website for all the free Christmas concerts groups will be performing at www.encorecreativity.org.

What’s right for you? 

• Before diving in, do your research! Consider these points:
• Is the group serious or more fun?
• Do I need to audition?
• Do I need to read music?
• What’s the time/money commitment?
• Are rehearsals mandatory?
• Is the group social/non-social?
• Can you attend a few performances to get the groups’ vibe?
• Is it close to home or work and easy to get to? (Many choirs practice in the evening)

Whatever option you choose, you’re sure to find a lift in your spirits and your social life.

YOUR TURN

Are you in a chorus? Share your experiences in the comments!

Jennifer Juergens Thomas loves to sing and even owns her own karaoke machine. Her first foray into singing was in high school musicals Bye Bye Birdie and Godspell (where she played Herb!)

Photo: Caia Image via Getty Images