I’ve had a goal for a while now of creating an inclusive community choir in Dawlish, Devon. As a town, we have a large SEND community but not necessary a huge amount of activities that makes an inclusive environment in our town, especially within music and the arts. Music and singing is great therapy with many benefits for the mind and body beyond just singing a joyful tune. I believe a send choir which incorporates makaton can help and develop skills socially, academically and artistically that will not just benefit our send community but also the wider community of Teignbridge and dawlish by increasing knowledge of makaton and the benefits of singing/music within all aspects of life.
We will aim to learn songs with harmonies and sometimes instruments whilst using makaton for those that would like to use it as well as singing the songs.
As a choir we will put on performances and shows. Any profit(s) made will be put directly back into the choir and community for theatre trips, courses, putting on master classes with professionals to broaden and develop their skills sets, also funding for lessons and exam entries (such as guildhall/ABRSM etc) where this might not necessarily be possible without support.
The aim is for inclusivity, development, enjoyment and support… ultimately bringing our community closer together and supporting one another.