The Torbay choir making physio fun!

17 November 2021
Do you have a respiratory condition such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?
Are you feeling the respiratory effects of long-COVID?
Did you know singing has a proven effect to help you manage your breathing?

Singing for Wellness is a singing group set up for anyone living with a respiratory condition. The aim of the group is to help these people breathe easier, connect with others, and have some fun! New members are welcome at any time to join our weekly sessions in Torquay.

In the sessions, we do breathing exercises and voice releasing. As one member of the Torbay group said, “it makes physio fun!”. Songs are specially arranged to ensure there are lots of spaces to take breaths, and the music leaders can always offer alternatives to cater to the needs of individuals.

Members don’t need any previous musical experience. We teach songs by ear so there is also no need to read music. We encourage you to try the group even if you have never sung before, indeed many of our current members had not! Our professional leaders are trained by the British Lung Foundation and bring a wealth of experience in community music. We offer a fully inclusive environment to create a group for people from all walks of life, with various respiratory conditions.

The group is great for socialising too. We start each session with 30 minutes of chat and catching up, and there is a break in the middle of the session too. Tea and coffee is provided, and you’re always welcome to bring along some cake!

Here are some of the things our current Singing For Wellness members have said:

  • “A joyous, healthy experience”
  • “Friendly, informal relaxed atmosphere”
  • “I feel enthusiastic before each session, much better after and I have reduced medication as a result”
  • “We have fun singing in a friendly and supportive group with inspirational leaders”
  • “Joyous. Exhilarated by the singing!”
  • “A harmony of musical camaraderie”

 

Attendance at the sessions is on a ‘pay what you feel’ basis. Most members contribute a few pounds per session but don’t worry if that is too much for you.

We encourage you to share information about the group with anyone you know who may be interested in trying singing to help with their respiratory challenges. We are also interested in those working in healthcare settings sharing information about the group. We are happy to give you more information and can also supply flyers and posters for you if desired.

Group members are welcome to bring partners, carers or other members of their support network to the sessions too.

Join Singing For Wellness Torbay sessions:
  • Thursdays 1.30pm – 3.30pm (singing starts at 2.00pm)
  • The Windmill Centre, Pendennis Road, Hele, Torquay, TQ2 7QR

Sessions run during term time. Contact us, or see our community calendar by scrolling down on our community page, for the date of the next session.

If you would like more information or have any questions please get in touch.