Singing ‘good for health’

The Let’s Sing Ōtaki choir is back to a full programme this year after the disruptions of Covid.

The “revival” can’t come soon enough for choir leader Ann-Marie Stapp.

“Covid made it really difficult,” she says. “People got used to being at home, but people need people. Being part of a choir is not only satisfying and a lot of fun, but also a great way to socialise and meet new people.

“It builds your social capital.”

The choir couldn’t rehearse or take concerts to the rest homes, and there were all sorts of rumours about how singing was somehow bad for health with Covid lingering in the community.

Ann-Marie says singing is quite the opposite.

“It’s good for you – for your health and well-being. It’s a form of exercise. People feel good singing.”

Returning to choir practice – at Hadfield Hall from

2-3pm on Tuesdays – is an opportunity for the choir to “renew and rebuild”, she says.

Choir member and guitarist Bev Rutherford says she’s looking forward to the choir meeting more regularly.

“Now we’re back, we’re keen to get some new members and start enjoying ourselves again.”

The choir has a wide variety of songs in its repertoire, including those from the First World War, traditional English, Irish, Scottish and Welsh folk songs, musicals and Māori waiata. If they fit the format, group members’ favourite songs are also included.

There’s a $5 per session fee to cover costs. At present the choir has about 20 members, but it’s hoped the numbers can rise to the 40 of days past.

“There’s no limit to the number, and no singing experience is necessary,” Bev says. “Just come along and have some fun.” n Contact: Ann-Marie, amstapp@xtra.co.nz or 021 492 127