“I don’t sing because I’m happy. I’m happy because I sing.” — William James

“The only thing better than singing is more singing.” — Ella Fitzgerald

Singing is really good for us in a lot of ways — physically, emotionally, psychologically, spiritually. Singing together is especially beneficial.

A study, commissioned in 2019 by Chorus America, details a lot of these benefits. You can link to the full report HERE. But allow me to summarize:

• People who sing together feel less alone and tend to be less depressed.

• They are far more optimistic about life in general. 80% report that they expect more good things than bad things to happen to them, compared to 55% of the general population.

• They are generous, regularly contributing to causes and charities.

• They are more engaged, and much more likely to vote than the average American — 90% vs. 55%.

• Those who sing together tend to be better collaborators, team players, and listeners.

• They are more adaptable and tolerant, and find it easier to get along with those whose views differ from their own.

• They are physically healthier and mentally more sharp, reporting fewer chronic health problems, fewer limitations, and less decline with aging.

Now, I know that it can be hard to attribute causation accurately in studies like this. The numbers get skewed because it seems likely that happy, vibrant people probably are more likely to join a choir or chorus in the first place. But it also makes perfect sense to me that singing together does, in turn, nurture such qualities of life in anyone who engages in it. I’ve experienced it, personally, and I’ve witnessed the transformational energy in others.

And when we combine this general wellbeing with the power of our intentions — the great creativity of our hearts and minds — well, then, we’re really cooking with gas, my friends.

Nothing fills me up more than a bunch of empowered, connected people of good will lifting our voices together in songs of peace, freedom, and love. Win-win-win. Good for us, good for each other, good for the world.

I’m very excited about our annual Hootenanny singalong this Sunday, October 15, 10:00am at Maple Street Dance Space. With special musical guests, Jared Israel Putnam and Kaye Summerhayes. Bring your friends and come early to get a good parking spot. XO, Drew