Why We Sing
Over the weekend I read an article by Professor Jane Davidson of The University of Melbourne titled, 5 Ways Singing Helps Humanity. Its opening summary statement encapsulates the general theme of the article,
“Singing is a powerful way of achieving deep personal and social meaning, as well as supporting our mental and physical wellbeing.”
The article proceeds to outline what research over the last decade indicates:
- Singing connects us from birth.
- Singing connects us to culture.
- Singing has a positive wellbeing impact.
- Singing can improve our physical health.
- Singing unites people.
Complementing this research, is a wonderful presentation I heard at the 2019 International Boys’ School Coalition Annual Conference in Montreal. At this conference, renowned neuroscientist, Dr Sonia Lupien gave a fascinating talk on stress and its effects. She outlined the relative stress that can be brought on by things that make students go ‘NUTS’ – Novelty, Unpredictability, Threat to ego and Sense of low control. Starting a new school year can present one or all these things! To combat this, Dr Lupien advised energy mobilisation and breathing effectively as important outlets for stress.
“In short, Dr Lupien recommended singing as part of a choir, having a laugh and moving/physical activity are best for teenagers!”
Each week at Shore, students sing in Chapel, and this is an important activity that is good for our boys and staff alike, one that connects generations, unifying us and building a rich cultural thread through the tapestry that is the history of Shore. In the classroom, singing also features prominently across our Campuses and our Co-Curricular Choral programme is a wonderful opportunity open to boys.
So, why do we sing? We sing because it is good for us!
Dr L Gilmour
Deputy Head Co-Curricular
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