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The 'magic' of singing in intergenerational choirs

BBC An overhead shot of the choir singing. The children from Combe Down Primary School are at the front of the choir and are wearing blue uniform, while the Bath Good Afternoon choir are at the back. There is a conductor leading the choir.BBC
Children from Combe Down Primary School performing with Bath Good Afternoon Choir

An intergenerational project has brought two choirs together for a Christmas concert.

Throughout December, children from Combe Down Primary School in Bath, Somerset and senior members of the Bath Good Afternoon Choir have taken to the stage at Widcombe Baptist Church to perform.

Choir founder, Grenville Jones, is behind the collaboration. There are 32 choirs across the region involved, who have all been busy rehearsing.

"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 said.

Grenville Jones stands beside a Christmas tree. He has white hair and is wearing a blue suit jacket and a knitted jumper.
Choir founder Grenville Jones says the choir is 'magic'

Staff at Combe Down School encourage the children to get involved with music for the mental benefits they 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.

"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 said.

"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," she added.

A woman stands in front of a window and a classroom display with countries on and signs. She has blonde hair and is wearing a Christmas hat with red sequins and a fluffy band.
Francesca Biffen says music and singing promotes wellbeing and a sense of community

Tanya Davidson, who leads the Bath Good Afternoon Choir, said the social aspect of singing was "paramount", particularly to the elderly during the colder months.

"The festive season is so important to come together and spread that Christmas message, the spirit and just socialise together," she said.

"The benefit of music from a young age is incredible - not only for education, but for building good citizens.

"People care, listen and empathise."

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