Dr Chris McElroy, internationally-acclaimed leader of the choir, says singing is the ideal way for people stressed by the strain of the business world to relax and let go of their troubles

Stressed-out business executives and professionals in Liverpool are being urged to “sing their woes away” by joining the new Blue Coat School community choir.

Dr Chris McElroy, internationally-acclaimed leader of the choir, says singing is the ideal way for people stressed by the strain of the business world to relax and let go of their troubles.

Also the director of music at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, Dr McElroy is appealing for recruits to join the new choir, starting in October and based at the famous Wavertree school.

Anyone participating in a choir will benefit from the proven powers of singing to increase their health and emotional satisfaction, by broadening their cultural experience outside of the pressures of work.

Dr McElroy, who is an expert in bringing out the best vocally in people, said: “Singing is a great way of meeting new people and using your brain artistically as it helps to relieve stress and improves mental well-being. I am very keen to bring choral and organ music not only to a wider public, but also to involve them in its creation.

“We’ll use familiar pieces such as the Hallelujah Chorus, Jerusalem and Zadok the Priest to ensure everyone really enjoys the experience and doesn’t find it intimidating.”

Talented 17-year-old Blue Coat music student, Daniel Greenway, who is one of the North West’s best young organists having achieved Organ Grade 8 with Distinction, will be chief accompanist on the chapel organ at rehearsals.

Daniel added: “There is something deeply spiritual about a group of people coming together and singing in unison. Apart from generating an emotional satisfaction, it also takes the music to a higher level.”

The Blue Coat Community Choir will launch in October 2019 with aim of performing at a very special public concert in January 2020, when the School will unveil its newly restored historic Father Willis pipe organ.

The new choir is part of the innovative Blue Coat For All music and community project, to encourage wider engagement with Blue Coat School and share opportunities with the general public.

There will be 12 evening rehearsals on Wednesdays, starting from October 2, at 7-8.30pm, in Blue Coat School’s Chapel, accompanied by its Walker organ and later in the assembly hall with the historic Father Willis organ, newly-restored thanks to a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant.   

If you are interested in joining the new Blue Coat Community Choir, contact Peter Elson, Blue Coat For All project manager, at p.elson@bluecoatschool.org.uk or call 0151 733 1407 ext. 207.