Celebrating the Magic of ParkinSings this World Parkinson’s Day
- HelloTomDyer
- Apr 11
- 3 min read
On this World Parkinson’s Day, we reflect with full hearts on a project that has brought people together in song, strength and solidarity – ParkinSings, a partnership between Choirs For Good and Parkinson’s UK Cymru.
This remarkable initiative brought together with funding from the Arts Council of Wales brought individuals living with Parkinson’s and their carers from across North, Mid and South Wales together in song. Over just a few weeks, singers from each region rehearsed in their own choirs before uniting for a stunning final performance at The Senedd in Cardiff Bay on April 1st. The result? A joyful, powerful celebration of community, courage and music.
Tiffany Evans, Choir Leader for ParkinSings Mid Wales, said she never expected the experience to leave such a lasting impression.
“I walked into a room with people I had never met before, with no previous singing experience whatsoever, but their positivity, enthusiasm and determination knocked my socks off,” she said. “We laughed a lot, tackled tough music and grew together. I don’t think the choirs knew the effect they had on us as leaders – I left feeling so much brighter than when I walked in.”
Tiffany highlighted the often-overlooked efforts of carers too, describing their tireless support and the emotional rollercoaster of hearing each person’s story.
“They worked so hard and always with a smile. Hearing their stories broke and mended my heart within the same conversation.”
Leslie Churchill Ward, Choir Leader for ParkinSings North Wales, described the experience as nothing short of magical:
“Some of our choristers had never sung in a choir before! And in just seven rehearsals we asked them to bond as a group, learn three songs in harmony, and perform at the Senedd. Yes, it was a big ask – and wow, did they rise to the challenge!”
Each song brought its own hurdles, from the Welsh-language beauty of “Ti a Fi” by Bronwen Lewis, incorporating Makaton* in The Beatles “Here Comes the Sun”, and mastering the lyrical speed of Weezer's “A Little Bit of Love”. But through every challenge came laughter, support, and shared pride.
Leslie added:
“We leaders were right there on the journey too. The singers guided us as much as we led them – we learned so much about Parkinson’s, and about perseverance, humour, and the power of community.”
The final performance at the Senedd was a moment of triumph, unity and joy – and its impact will ripple far beyond that day.
“Some of the comments after the performance were so moving – people felt stronger, more independent, even rekindled a love of singing or found a brand-new hobby,” Leslie reflected. “This was a life-affirming, and for some, a life-changing experience.”
Beyond the mental and physical benefits of singing, ParkinSings has created something even more special: lasting friendships.
“Members from all three choirs have made plans to meet up socially. That sense of belonging and community is priceless. That, to me, is the greatest result.”
Tom Dyer, Choir Leader for ParkinSings South remarked how the sessions and performance allowed those affected by Parkinson’s work toward what they can do.
“Many of the members remarked that Parkinson’s focuses so much on what can’t be done, but this has turned it on its head and showed what can be done. The outcome of the performance was not just a nice thing, but a quality sound which will live long in the memories of those who have been involved in the project."
And, of course, no reflection would be complete without a nod to the incredible Ruth – the beating heart behind the scenes – as Leslie puts it:
“OH MY GOD, RUTH IS AMAZING AND DESERVES 28,000 MEDALS!”
What’s more, we’re also analysing the impact of the singing sessions with the choristers through Rosie Dow, Arts and Health Consultant, who is analysing the data now to ascertain just what impact ParkinSings has had on those attending the sessions.
At Choirs For Good, we believe singing is more than a shared hobby – it’s a lifeline. It’s about bringing people together, raising voices in harmony, and discovering strength in every note.
To all our ParkinSings choristers, carers, supporters, and friends – thank you. You’ve shown what’s possible when we come together with courage, creativity, and kindness.
Let the music – and the magic – continue.
This short video has been compiled by Parkinson's UK Cymru. It includes interviews with Choir Leaders and participants in the choirs to provide insight on the whole experience.
*Makaton is a language programme that uses signs, symbols and speech; giving a person different options when communicating.
Comments