A new community choir in Hammersmith is offering a gateway to musical engagement for residents, regardless of their singing experience. The group is open to everyone, with an emphasis on fostering fun and developing community ties.
"Nothing brings people together like music does," explained Meerav Shah, who initiated the choir earlier this year as part of centenary celebrations for the Peabody Estate. The aim was to unite individuals from the estate, neighbouring areas, and beyond for a centenary performance, and to establish a lasting cross-generational community choir accessible at any skill level.
With members aged from 12 to their 70s, the choir has already created a musical buzz among local residents. The group performed for approximately 120 guests at the Peabody Estate's 100th anniversary party in August, held in the estate's central sunken garden. Their performance highlighted Hammersmith's historical significance in popular music, referencing The Beatles' performances at the Hammersmith Apollo and Lily Allen's early years in the borough.
Meerav Shah, 27, chair of the Peabody Estate's Tenants and Residents Association (TRA) and a violinist, added: "People can often be nervous to come through the door at first but the biggest thing we're trying to inspire is getting people involved in creating a community. We want to tackle that issue of loneliness, getting people to know their neighbours."
“"It's the first time I've been involved in cross-estate activity, and we also have other people coming from outside both our estates. It's a warm and welcoming atmosphere and very informal. I've grown to really value singing with other people, there's something really amazing about making sound together. It does something incredibly healing and rather wonderful."
The free choir meets most Wednesday evenings at the Hammersmith Community Hall on Fulham Palace Road. It has welcomed singers from across the borough, supported by a £2,000 Peabody grant award. Shirley Cupit, 72, a former nurse who has lived on the nearby Queen Caroline Estate for 28 years, shared her positive experience, noting the warm, informal atmosphere and the joy of making music collectively.
Local artistic director Sam Loveless, nominated for an award for his community participation work, supports the group. Shirley also emphasised the importance of ensuring everyone's voice is heard, stating: "There are moments where I hear the sound we're all making together and it's just wonderful. I just find that whatever else I'm going through and the challenges I've faced in a day, when I go and sing with these other people, I always find it's one of the most mindful things I do. I really enjoy both parts of it – being with people and someone helping me to make the best music I can. I hear myself singing in a way I didn't know I could sing. There are moments when I can't believe it's me."
For more information, individuals can email Meerav at tape.eventsandhall@gmail.com or attend a rehearsal on 28 October, or 4, 11, and 25 November, from 6:45pm to 8:15pm at Hammersmith Community Hall, Fulham Palace Road, W6 9QT.
