Sing Ireland is calling a different tune 

Cara Sheerin

A NEW name for the organisation that develops, supports and promotes all forms of group singing across Ireland has been announced. 

With over 300-member groups at present, Sing Ireland, formerly known as the Association for Irish Choirs, is focused on spreading the word about singing to encourage even more people to get involved. 

The organisation now has a new website (www.singireland.ie) which lists singing groups across the country, and people on the Northside are being encouraged to get involved. 

Anyone interested is advised to log on to find details of groups and choirs in their own area. There is a group to suit everyone!

Sing Ireland is encouraging all those interested in singing, regardless of their age or ability, to get involved in a group this year. Choir singing can, according to studies at the University of Oxford, improve breathing, posture and muscle tension, as well as general mental health.

Speaking at the launch at the National Concert Hall, Chairman of Sing Ireland Alan Kelly, said: “We are delighted to launch Sing Ireland which will be a more modern and inclusive organisation, reflecting changes in society and group singing over the past number of years. 

“Sing Ireland will look to build on the growing choral tradition in Ireland and expand to welcome all singing groups to our network.

“There is a wonderful opportunity for everyone involved in this space to transform collective group singing in Ireland. We hope that by working together with partners and funders in the arts sector we can achieve great things.”

Dermot O’Callaghan, chief executive of Sing Ireland, said: “Anybody who sings in a choir will tell you that participating fully can bring huge rewards. Group singing is like a team sport – your contribution is as important as that of every other singer in the ensemble.

“At Sing Ireland, we are looking forward to encouraging more people to get involved and experience the positive impact singing can have on their health and creativity. Get out and get singing today! It really is true that singing can change your life.”

Orlaith McBride, Director of the Arts Council, said thousands of people throughout Ireland sing in groups and form an important part of arts actively in their local communities. 

“The Arts Council has supported these communities with funding at a national level of the Association of Irish Choirs, over many years,” said Ms McBride.  

“Sing Ireland represents an exciting new phase in the development of group singing, and we celebrate this achievement.”  

For more information, visit www.singireland.ie