Older People:


To see my projects with older people in a hospital setting please go to Just a Song at Twilight

Octavia, Silver Song Club is my much-loved monthly singing group for older people which I facilitate for the organisation Sing For Your Life. Attention is paid to singing and communicating from the heart, and to easing voices that may have closed down in mind, body or spirit. An age group that grew up in a culture where making music was commonplace eases so naturally into this. Octavia has recorded a CD, presented several gigs and the group loves performing on stage.

It is a joy to hear lost voices come alive again and watch the folk who are ‘just coming in to listen’ become unstoppable in their vocal offerings. To see a sparkle come into the eyes and see how much vibrant energy is generated, or to watch members connect with each-other through song and build community is brilliant.

Together with volunteers from the Sussex Chorus the group learns new songs, and members share in musical activities that lift the spirit and boost morale. They incorporate more up-to-date songs avoiding being stereotyped by the traditional ‘sing-along’ (which is also enjoyed at times). Love Can Build a Bridge, Can You Feel the Love Tonight and Big Spender, with a marvellous glitzy backing track, have been recent favourites. Older songs act as a platform for memories and discussion. Members sing lullabies and love songs to each-other, laughing and crying according to the mood of the music and the group. Above all participants bond well and have enormous fun. They are always open to, and welcome, new members. 

“This is such a tonic – and one that you can’t buy in a bottle!” Pat, Octavia member

Warm-ups to gently stretch the vocal muscles and to relax the body are integral to the sessions and members are encouraged to sing at home between monthly rehearsals to keep their voices exercised. Participants do not need any singing experience and the group learns by ear rather than from written notation. There are no ‘good’ or ‘bad’ voices – just voices of different colours! Octavia members bring a lifetime of experience and broad perspective to feed into the songs. They have an enormous amount to offer. The group was thrilled to receive a letter of encouragement from Dame Vera Lynn.

“I was very pleased to hear about your choir….You are doing a great job. My very best wishes, Dame Vera’’ Encouraging message from Dame Vera Lynn

YOU ARE MOST WARMLY INVITED TO COME AND SING WITH OCTAVIA WHEN? On the third Tuesday morning of the month, 11 am -12.15 pm (please see EVENTS DIARY for dates) WHERE? Age Concern, St Alban’s Hall, Fairfield Road, BURGESS HILL, West Sussex, RH15 8QB FOR FURTHER DETAILS: Tel: 01444 236497 or E-mail: ac-burgesshill@btconnect.com  SEE MAP

    Contact Lou