With 72 choirs and nearly 2,000 members in British military bases across the UK and overseas, the Military Wives Choirs is a charity that brings women in the military community closer together and empowers them through singing.
When you move around frequently, it can be tough to put down roots or make new friends, particularly when loved ones are away for long periods of time. Research shows that singing in a choir can help to alleviate stress and can contribute to an improvement in mental health and well-being. The Military Wives Choirs therefore have a vital role to play by bringing women in the military community together to sing.
No experience necessary
The network is tri-service, free from rank, and you don’t have to have any previous musical experience to join or be able to read music – there are no auditions. There’s never any pressure to perform in public either, although many members find their confidence increases once they are singing alongside their fellow choir members.
The Military Wives Choirs welcomes women with a variety of military connections; more information on the membership criteria, choir locations and the charity, is available on their website.
Sing, share, and support one another
Maggie Pedder, chair of trustees and choir member, says: “Choir is a really important evening in my busy week, where I can set aside some time just for me and really feel part of a community. The pandemic has been a challenging time, but we’ve continued to feel stronger together. When singing together in person hasn’t been possible, we meet virtually for music-making, quizzes and a huge amount of fun and laughter!”
Interested in taking part?
Prospective members are welcome any time; email joinus@militarywiveschoirs.org for more details and to speak to a member of the team or visit www.militarywiveschoirs.org