Sing for Life

Sing for Life choirs can help soothe your cancer journey, support wellbeing and offer moments of joy along the way.  And you don’t need to have a good voice to join us!

What is Sing for Life? 

Our Sing for Life groups are for cancer patients and their families or carers to come and sing each week just to have fun, relax and find support in like-minded people.  The groups meet weekly and you are welcome as regularly as you can manage. Through singing, we can help you reconnect with yourself, find a community and meet others going through similar situations.

No singing experience is necessary and there is no pressure to perform.  Our focus isn’t on musical quality but on expression, connection and relaxation.  Even a song sung out of tune has many benefits!

What are the benefits of singing?  

It might seem like a simple thing, but for many people, singing can become a powerful source of healing and connection. Whether you currently just sing in the car, the shower or hum along to your favourite tune, it is actually healing your body, mind and soul. Scientific studies have now proven that music can actually contribute to the healing process.

One of the most immediate effects of singing is mood improvement. Singing releases endorphins and oxytocin, hormones that help lift spirits, reduce stress and can ease pain and discomfort. For individuals going through the uncertainty and emotional strain of cancer, this natural boost can make a real difference in day-to-day wellbeing. Singing can help ease anxiety, improve self-confidence and foster a greater sense of calm and control.

Breath control and lung function can also benefit from regular singing. Many cancer patients, particularly those undergoing surgery or radiotherapy in the chest area, may experience reduced lung capacity or shallow breathing. Gentle singing encourages breath control, helping to deepen your breathing, strengthen respiratory muscles and encourage more mindful breathing patterns.  

Singing in a group also offers the benefit of social connection. Cancer can sometimes feel isolating and joining a choir provides a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Singing with others promotes teamwork, empathy and joy.  Our choirs create safe, uplifting spaces where people feel understood and supported, alongside others who ‘get it’ without having to spell it out.  The regular meetings can become a highlight on otherwise hectic weeks.

There’s also a mindfulness aspect to singing. Focusing on breath, tone, and rhythm encourages people to be present in the moment, helping to quiet racing thoughts and reduce mental fatigue. For those experiencing the emotional rollercoaster of treatment and recovery, singing can become a grounding and therapeutic practice.  And, with all that relaxation, it can even help you sleep better.

Contact your local Sing for Life choir

Alternatively, you can email careteam@wessexcancer.org.uk to book your initial chat or drop into your local cancer support centre in person.

I’ve never sung before, is there anything I should know?

You absolutely don’t need any prior singing experience or the ability to read music to join one of our choirs. Many people who join have never sung outside the shower, and that’s perfectly okay It also doesn’t matter if you can read music or not, all the songs will be taught in an accessible way, usually by ear, and there is always someone to ask if you’re not sure. 

You won’t need to prepare in advance to join us but we do recommend that you bring a bottle of water with you (singing can be thirsty work!) and wear comfortable clothing so you can breathe easily. Most importantly, be yourself and enjoy the experience.

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