We caught up with Harrow’s “More Than Just a Choir,” a group of volunteer tenors and altos who are making a real difference in people’s lives.
“More Than Just a Choir” is supported by the registered national charity Rethink Mental Illness, which campaigns for better support and understanding of mental illness. The charity also provides advice and support to local councils across the country.
We spoke to David Phelops, who is a volunteer for Rethink Mental Illness and also the Founder and Musical Director of “More Than Just a Choir.”
“The choir has been running for 15 years; it was set up back in 2009. There are some core members who have been with the choir since the beginning, and over the years, we still have new people join,” he explained.
David explained that one of the main goals of “More Than Just a Choir” is to get people together, promote social inclusion, and reduce isolation. “I am amazed at how many people turn up on the Tuesday; they come from all parts of the borough, and we even get someone coming from South London from time to time.”
“It really does bring us together and has made me feel connected,” said one of the singers.
It’s completely free to join, and they rehearse in Victoria Hall, Harrow, every Tuesday from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. The choir also offers three Zoom sessions a week for people who are unable to leave their homes or cannot make the session.
Rethink Mental Illness is an umbrella charity, and the choir sits under them as a registered group. David explained, “We don’t receive any funding, but the organisation does support us in other ways, such as providing rehearsal space and equipment.”
The group’s work and commitment are never-ending, with an ever-growing events diary. You’ve probably seen them perform at Headstone Village and Pinner Fair. They even performed carols for King Charles when he came to visit Harrow. They’ve performed at mental health conferences and many local performances, not just in Harrow but across the capital.
The choir attends the Guildhall School of Music each year to work closely alongside students studying music therapy. One of the key values of the choir is “to work inclusively to ensure everyone has a voice.”
Given how much positive social impact the organisation is doing, it’s fair to say that the group really is more than just a choir.
If you want to know more or you’ve got some pipes and want to get involved, please do get in touch directly:
Their Facebook page: https://m.facebook.com/MTJAChoir/
Website: http://www.morethanjustachoir.org/
Carly is a creative writer with a wide range of interests and a genuine curiosity about people and their experiences. She’s community-focused and enjoys telling real, relatable stories. When she’s not writing, she’s usually exploring something new or working on one of her many projects.
