A group of construction professionals in Scotland has formed a choir to raise funds for two causes and showcase their musical talents.
Building Harmony Choir: How it started
The choir was launched in May 2023 by Claire Rosset and Molly Armstrong, both of BakerHicks, a design and engineering company. They wanted to create a fun and relaxing way for people in the construction sector to network and socialize, without the usual pressure of formal events. They also wanted to share their passion for singing and music with others.
The choir is open to anyone who works in the construction industry, regardless of their experience or ability. The choir has about 20 members, mostly beginners, who meet bi-weekly for rehearsals in Glasgow. They sing a variety of songs, from rock to pop to folk, with some original arrangements by Claire and Molly.
Building Harmony Choir: Why they sing
The choir members say that singing together has many benefits, such as reducing stress, improving mood, boosting confidence, and enhancing teamwork. They also say that singing helps them express themselves creatively and emotionally, and connect with others who share their interests.
One of the choir members, Michael Kenny, who works for Marie Curie’s facilities management team, said: “Singing in the choir has been a great experience for me. It has helped me cope with the challenges of my job, which can be quite stressful and demanding. It has also given me a chance to meet new people and make friends in the industry.”
Another choir member, Laura Smith, who works for a roofing company, said: “I love singing in the choir because it makes me happy and relaxed. I have always enjoyed singing, but I never had the opportunity to join a choir before. I have learned a lot from Claire and Molly, who are very supportive and encouraging. I have also discovered new songs and genres that I didn’t know before.”
Building Harmony Choir: What they sing
The choir has prepared a diverse and exciting repertoire for their debut concert, which will take place on December 12 at 7pm at Adelaide Place Baptist Church in Glasgow. The concert will feature hits from bands such as Metallica, Guns and Roses, The Killers, Foo Fighters, Fleet Foxes, and more. The choir will also perform the theme song from a popular video game, which they have adapted into a choral version.
The second half of the concert will be dedicated to festive songs, such as Jingle Bells, Silent Night, White Christmas, and others. The choir will also invite the audience to join them in singing some carols.
The concert will last about an hour and a half, with refreshments provided during the interval. Tickets are priced at £15 for adults and £7 for children.
Building Harmony Choir: Who they support
The concert is not only a chance for the choir to showcase their talents, but also a way to raise money for two charities that are close to their hearts: Marie Curie and Cumbernauld Action for the Care of the Elderly (CACE).
Marie Curie is a charity that provides care and support for people with terminal illnesses and their families. It also funds research into palliative care and end-of-life issues. CACE is a charity that works to improve the wellbeing and quality of life of older people in and around Cumbernauld. It offers various services and activities, such as befriending, lunch clubs, gardening, arts and crafts, and more.
The choir hopes to raise as much money as possible for these two causes through ticket sales and donations. They are also looking for sponsors who can help them cover the costs of the venue and refreshments.
Building Harmony Choir: How to join or support them
The choir is always open to new members who want to join them in singing and having fun. They welcome anyone who works in the construction industry, regardless of their level of experience or musical background. They rehearse every other week in either Adelaide Place Baptist Church or BakerHicks’ Glasgow office.
To join or find out more about the choir, visit their LinkedIn page or email Claire at Claire.Rossett@BakerHicks.co.uk.
To buy tickets for the concert or make a donation, visit this link.
To sponsor the concert or offer any other support, contact Claire at Claire.Rossett@BakerHicks.co.uk.
The choir hopes that their concert will be a success and that they will be able to continue singing together in the future. They also hope that their initiative will inspire other construction professionals to explore their creative side and find joy in music.
Will the construction choir hit the right notes at their Christmas concert? Will they raise enough money for their chosen charities? Will they attract more singers to join them? The answers will be revealed on December 12.
