Intergenerational Choirs Perform Christmas Concert

An intergenerational initiative brought together two choral groups for a Christmas concert. Throughout December, children from Combe Down Primary School in Bath, Somerset, and senior members of the Bath Good Afternoon Choir performed on stage at Widcombe Baptist Church. Grenville Jones, the choir’s founder, organized this collaboration. A total of 32 choirs from across the region are involved and have been preparing. “It’s an absolute win – the older folk love singing with the children and the children love singing with the older folk… it’s magic,” Mr Jones stated. Staff at Combe Down School encourage children to participate in music for the mental benefits it provides. The subject is taught alongside core topics such as English and mathematics, which the children “absolutely love,” according to Francesca Biffen, the assistant head. Biffen commented, “We see music as a really, really important subject. The sense of community it promotes, the sense of happiness and wellbeing that singing a really joyful song can promote.” She further added, “Being involved in a community event is really what Christmas is about. The children were so excited about coming down to take part in this concert and lots of our parents and grandparents have come down to watch which really gives the children that wonderful feeling of the opportunity to perform in front of others as well.” Tanya Davidson, who leads the Bath Good Afternoon Choir, highlighted the “paramount” social aspect of singing, especially for the elderly during the colder months. She said, “The festive season is so important to come together and spread that Christmas message, the spirit and just socialise together.” Davidson also noted, “The benefit of music from a young age is incredible – not only for education, but for building good citizens. People care, listen and empathise.” For updates, follow BBC Somerset on Facebook and X. Story ideas can be sent via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.