Fundraising Manager at SFE, Sarah Caldwell, discusses how our Community Choirs project brought members together over 2025/26…
Whether it’s learning a new song, sharing a laugh during rehearsals or performing in front of friends and family, our Community Choirs continue to bring people together through a shared love of music, creating friendships, boosting wellbeing and proving that it’s never too late to discover the joy of singing.
Over the past year, both of our ExtraCare Village singing groups have enjoyed another successful year, growing in confidence, expanding their repertoire and welcoming new members along the way.
A Thriving Community at Hagley Road
Our original group, based at ExtraCare’s Hagley Road Village, has continued to flourish as new residents have discovered just how much fun the weekly sessions can be, and they have been particularly pleased to welcome several new male members this year, adding another dimension to the group’s sound.
Led by Helen (Vocal Teacher here at SFE) and accompanied by volunteer pianist Tahlia, rehearsals feature music from a wide range of genres, with plenty of member favourites making regular appearances.
Throughout the year, the choir has performed at several village events, each creating lasting memories for performers and audiences alike.
Their contribution to the Village’s Remembrance Ceremony in November was especially moving, special for everyone involved, especially given the personal reflections. Their annual festive performance once again delighted fellow residents, families and invited guests, while several new soloists confidently took to the microphone.
One particular highlight came when the choir accepted an invitation to perform festive songs at a local pub’s Christmas celebration – an opportunity everyone thoroughly enjoyed.
“I’ve never been in a choir before, but I look forward to it every week, and I’ll miss it when it’s not on over the summer. It has helped me get to know other people.” – Viv, Hagley Road Village
A Successful First Full Year at Solihull
Inspired by the success of the Hagley Road group, our Solihull Village choir has now completed its first full year.
Starting with a small number of singers, the group has steadily grown and now welcomes an average of 12–14 members each week. With one of the choir members accompanying on piano alongside Helen, the group has built an ever-growing and varied repertoire.
Although still a relatively new activity within the village, the choir embraced the opportunity to perform during the Christmas celebrations, entertaining residents and guests at a festive mulled wine and mince pie afternoon.
Their enthusiasm is perhaps best summed up in their own words:
“It’s uplifting, sociable, joyful, fun, has huge health benefits and can be therapeutic as it lifts your spirits.” – Solihull Village Choir Members
More Than Just a Choir
For Helen, who has led both groups since the beginning, the greatest reward has been watching friendships grow alongside musical confidence.
“Seeing the members come together and do something special – something they really get so much from – is incredibly rewarding. Watching them perform at the Remembrance and VE Day events are particularly special moments.” – Helen Phipps, Choir Lead
As another successful year comes to a close, both choirs are already looking forward to returning in September. New songs are waiting to be learned, including a 1950s-themed repertoire, and plans are underway to collaborate not only with each other but with other local singing groups too.
As the song says… there really ain’t no stopping us now!
Keep the Music Going
Our Community Choirs are wonderful examples of how #MusicCan bring people together, creating opportunities for friendship, connection and improved wellbeing through music.
Costing around £6,000 each year to deliver, these sessions are only possible thanks to our fundraising efforts.
If you’d like to help us keep the music playing for our ExtraCare Village choirs, we’d love to hear from you.
Find out more about supporting our Community Choirs, here.
The photographs below capture some wonderful moments from our choirs’ festive performances throughout the year:
Pictured above left to right: Our Hagley Road Village Group and Solihull Group
About the Author
Sarah Caldwell – Fundraising Manager, Services For Education
Sarah Caldwell joined Services For Education in Summer 2023, bringing with her over 14 years fundraising experience. Working in the Birmingham charity sector, she has raised valuable funds for a range of projects impacting the day to day lives of young people with disabilities.
Sarah has experience across a number of fundraising streams (including Trusts & Foundation, Events and Corporate Fundraising), and brings this, along with a strong interest in building relationships with supporters, to her role at SFE.