Scarborough's Stephen Joseph Theatre’s Funky and Global Voices choirs go online - how to join in

The Funky and Global Voices Choirs will meet via Zoom from the week commencing Monday June 29.

Each choir has around 30 existing members, and welcomes new members.

The SJT’s associate director for children and young people and Funky Choir member Cheryl Govan said: “Singing is a great way to unwind and it really doesn’t matter if you’re a brilliant singer or not. Singing is scientifically proven to make you feel happier.

“Don't be put off if you think you can’t sing: this is about having a good time. The best bit about Zoom choirs is that only the people in your own house can hear you.

“The Funky Choir will be learning Car Wash by Rose Royce – a funky song if ever there was one. The end result will be a fun and lively video.

“Global Voices will be learning Nina Simone’s I Wish I Knew How it Would Feel to be Free, giving participants the chance to reflect on what freedom means to them. This reflective, but super fun, process will result in a thoughtful video to accompany the song.”

The Funky Zoom Choir will meet at 7pm on Tuesdays from Tuesday June 30: The Funky Choir has gone from strength to strength in the last few years, developing a varied and colourful set of lively pop, funk, disco and soul covers.

Musical Director Mark Gordon has been a prominent face on the Scarborough music scene for more than 30 years, performing regularly with many popular local bands and acting as musical director for several theatre shows. Mark is also a music teacher in local schools and runs youth orchestras, jazz bands, rock workshops and choirs, as well as being a private piano teacher.

The Global Voices Zoom Choir will meet at 7pm on Thursdays from July 2: The Global Voices Choir sing songs from around the world, from warm-ups, short rounds and chants to more complex, exciting songs.

Choir leader Sarah Dew is also a music teacher and composer, creating musical journeys in soundscapes that blend her field recordings, melody and ambient sound art. Poetic narrative features in many of her ethereal works. Sarah has written extensively for her band Raven, whose performances around the region over many years celebrate life, love and the universe.

Membership of the Funky and Global Choirs costs £35 each for a five-week term.

For more information: https://www.sjt.uk.com/getinvolved/adult