The Come Together Choir was originally established in 2010 as a research project, aiming to assess the benefits of singing for health, well-being and social engagement for the over 50s. 

An open day was held last Tuesday at the Senior Citizens and Pensioners Centre during Seniors Week to showcase the project’s success in the wider community.

Choir publicity officer Vicky Phelan said the 71 choir members, ranging in age from 30 to 88, come together for different reasons; leaving a lot of problems at the door at weekly singing sessions. 

“People who’ve got problems in life or aren’t well just love coming here because they know they’re going to gain a friendship that brings us all together,” Mrs Phelan said. 

Fellow choir member Juliana Hazell agreed, saying the choir is “the thing” which keeps her mental health issues at bay, as she suffers from chronic clinical depression. 

“Being in the choir helps me with my depression,” Mrs Hazell said. 

“I can manage it much better when I’m singing ... I can have a smile on my face.”

Mrs Hazell joined when she moved to Orange from Newcastle with her husband.

“A neighbour told me about the choir, so I came along and it’s just been marvellous. It’s a really good way to get to know people and I became very accepted quickly,” she said.

“You can’t help but smile and be uplifted when you’re in that room.”

The choir meets every Tuesday during school terms from 10am to 12pm at the Senior Citizens Centre. 

If you are suffering from any mental health issues, Lifeline provides 24/7 crisis and suicide prevention support and can be contacted on 13 11 14.