Local Vocals, a community choir group with more than 40 choirs across the North of England, has raised over £23,000 for North West Cancer Research following its recent performances at Bridgewater Hall in Manchester. The two shows, hosted by Coronation Street actress Sue Devaney, were watched by an audience of 1,800 people and featured more than 500 singers at each performance, accompanied by a live band and a string quartet.
Raising funds through song
The choir group, founded by LIPA graduate Laura Bennett-Gornall, has more than 1,000 members who meet weekly and perform locally to support its aim of doing good for others through the joy of singing. Since forming in 2021, Local Vocals has raised more than £80,000 for charities across the North and is now aiming to reach a six-figure sum by the end of this year.
Alistair Richards, CEO of North West Cancer Research, said: "What Local Vocals has created is something very special. Bringing together so many people through the joy of music, while making such a meaningful difference to local charities, is an incredible achievement. Every pound raised will help continue funding pioneering cancer research and education across the North West, improving outcomes for people affected by cancer."
Memorable performances
The performances at Bridgewater Hall proved to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for both singers and audience members. The shows were described as 'truly outstanding performances'. Audience members at the evening show were treated to a performance of the Edith Piaf classic, Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien, by Sue Devaney, which brought the house down with a standing ovation from both the audience and the choir.
One choir member commented: "What an honour and privilege it was to take part in this spectacular event! It will live in my memory forever." Many of the singers from different choirs had never met before, but enjoyed the opportunity to meet new people and sing alongside so many others.
Weekly rehearsals and community impact
At weekly rehearsals, participants at all choirs learn uplifting songs in four-part harmony, meet other choir members, and discover the choir's upcoming performance opportunities and charitable goals. By joining, members can not only have fun singing but also contribute to important causes in the community.
Local Vocals’ team of talented choir leaders makes every session fun and accessible to everyone. Another member added: "I never thought I’d join a choir – I thought it was just for people with perfect voices, but Local Vocals changed that! It’s a warm, fun community where everyone’s welcome and you don’t need a great voice to enjoy yourself. I’m so glad I gave it a go!"
The choir is open to anyone over 16, with no auditions, previous singing experience or ability to read music required. If you love music and singing, that’s all you need. The group performs a diverse range of songs by artists such as Oasis, Adele, Take That, Fleetwood Mac, Queen, Stevie Wonder, Justin Timberlake and many more, with unique arrangements and exciting performance opportunities at festivals, stadiums, cathedrals and community events.
The new term starts in September, so if it’s time for you to find your voice and experience the joy of singing together, book your free trial session at www.localvocalschoir.com. Lots of choirs are opening in new locations this autumn, so if you live in Greater Manchester or Yorkshire, there are now even more places where you can sing. To book the choir for an upcoming event, email office@localvocalschoir.com. Local Vocals also offers workplace singing workshops for businesses that are prioritising staff wellbeing.
