600 local primary school children joined together to sing their hearts out at concerts held at The Atkinson in Southport. Their theme was Together in Unity.
Sing for Sefton arose from the Southport Festival of Music which closed its annual performance competitions in 2022, after 115 years of music making throughout Sefton and beyond.
In the post Covid world the festival committee wanted to bring the transformative power of choral music to a wider spectrum of children, supporting mental health and wellbeing. Joining with Sefton Music Service allowed their aspirations to become a reality.
Each of 11 schools had choral workshops led by musicians from Ex Cathedra, an internationally known group who provided dynamic, original, and engaging songs aimed to inspire a love of singing. The children had a ball at these rehearsals, learning the words and actions through fun and active engagement. Some schools also prepared their own songs on the theme of Together in Unity.
Invited guests were bowled over by the energy, enthusiasm and engagement displayed. Many were quite emotional at the joyfulness and vitality which were quite overwhelming.
“Every school should be part of this.”
“An inspiring day!”
“It brought a tear to my eye and I couldn’t stop smiling!”
The children were quite awed by the theatre and were bubbling with excitement as they left.
“I love to sing. It makes me feel happy!”
“I sometimes get nervous about performing, but then the excitement takes over!” “Awesome!” “Amazing?’ “Can we do it again?”
Their smiles said it all.
The event was funded jointly by Sing for Sefton and Sefton Music Service. Sponsors are crucial to the future success of this exciting project. Two days of concerts and 20 schools taking part is the plan for 2025, funds permitting.
Chairman of Sing for Sefton, Sue Dexter, said that the event had exceeded their wildest hopes, and that they were determined to expand this inspiring venture in the future. She added that Sing for Sefton, Sefton Music Service and Ex Cathedra made a great team and had coordinated brilliantly.
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