Sally Randall

Social Singing in Ōamaru

For as far back as I can remember I have always loved to sing, though my career history has been in health, mental health and health education. I love how group singing connects people together, there is really nothing like the feeling of being a part of the whole that is the magical sound a choir makes.

I am passionate about getting people singing which is how I became a Song leader and I truly believe that group singing builds communities.

I think everybody has the right to sing with others and to experience the multiple health and wellbeing benefits of group singing.

Prior to moving south, I founded the Local Vocals Choir in 2012 in Wellsford, north of Auckland. Under gradual mentorship first with Max Maxwell and then with Helen Diaz, I slowly began my songleading journey and connection to SLNA.

Inspired by attending Julian Raphael’s social singing groups in Wellington, I decided to have a go at leading Social Singing myself. Thus currently and since 2017 I have led a non-performance based community group Social Singing Ōamaru. For several years I have been contracted by Age Concern Otago to organize, administrate and deliver 10 social singing sessions each term of the 4 term year.

Sessions are from 1 to 2.30pm on Thursday afternoons at the Orwell St Church Hall Ōamaru.

socialsingingoamaru@gmail.com

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In 2023 I established Ōamaru Sings, which then then successfully applied for a grant to coordinate and lead a 10 week Sunday afternoon singing project ‘All together now!’ which culminates in a community performance in the 10th week July 21st.

Ōamaru Sings will host other singing events and projects in the future Members of SLNA have given me support and guidance over the years that I have been a member and have served on the committee.

I am thankful that our organization exists.