Alumni sing for mental health with the Sofa Singers
This year we marked World Mental Health Day with a truly special online alumni Sing-Along!
The event was hosted by the wonderful Sofa Singers, an inspiring online community that unites people through the power of song. The community was set up by alum James Sills during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the hopes of bringing people together through the power of music. The Sofa Singers now have members from over 50 countries, with over 300 members continuing to meet, share and sing.
Speaking to our alumni blog about the Sofa Singers, Alumni Voices, James said:
"Just like practices such as yoga and breath work have entered the mainstream conversation around mental health, I wanted to do the same for singing."
It was a successful evening as 135 participants, including alumni, staff, and the general public came together to sing to improve their wellbeing. Together, they learned to sing Bill Withers' uplifting classic, “Lovely Day,” complete with harmonies!
Attendees also listened to an inspiring speech from Professor Lina Gega, a leading specialist in mental health and Director of the Institute of Mental Health Research at York. She shared fascinating insights into how music and singing can boost mental wellbeing and highlighted York’s pioneering role in mental health research.
As mental health remains a priority at York, the Mentally Fit York fund is a key cause for the University's Giving Day. Alumni are welcome to get involved with Giving Day by donating, becoming an ambassador, or simply helping to spread the word.
