Tone deaf choir bringing joy to amateur singers

In the vibrant city of Bristol, a unique choir is bringing joy to those who may feel they lack singing talent. This choir, known as Zest Choir, is located in South Gloucestershire and has recently expanded its offerings by adding evening classes due to the overwhelming interest from the community. Zest Choir is a welcoming space for individuals who believe they cannot sing, and it has quickly become a beloved gathering for many. The choir meets regularly at the Longwell Green Community Centre, where members express that participating in the choir truly 'brings joy' to their lives. Mary Williams, the founder of Zest Choir, emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment for all singers. She stated, 'This is a safe space for people who think they aren't good enough just to let it rip, really, and have a really good time. ' This sentiment resonates with many members, as they find comfort in being able to sing freely without the pressure of perfection. One of the choir members, Hilary Thomas, who is 65 years old, shared her enthusiasm for the choir. She said, 'I don't really care, I can hear my own voice but I don't care. ' Hilary appreciates the fact that the choir embraces those who may not hit the right notes, and she feels a sense of belonging. She added, 'It's the fact that it's a tuneless choir and I thought, well, I'm tuneless, so I can come to this choir. ' Mary Williams aims to ensure that Zest Choir remains a 'safe space' for everyone. She explained that some members may be facing challenges related to mental health, and the choir serves as a positive outlet for them. The atmosphere is one of acceptance and encouragement, allowing individuals to express themselves through music. Another member, Andrew, joined the choir after retiring. He mentioned, 'Whilst I'm not tone deaf, I find it quite difficult to keep the pitch of a note and my sense of rhythm is not great either. But that's fine here. ' This highlights the choir's inclusive nature, where everyone is welcome regardless of their musical abilities. Zest Choir is currently inviting new members to join their Wednesday evening class. If you are interested in singing and having a great time, you can reach out to them. The Zest Choir is dedicated to spreading joy through music, creating a community where everyone can feel accepted and happy. It is a wonderful opportunity for those who love to sing, regardless of their skill level.