Freedom of Mind Choir
With the power of song, Freedom of Mind Community Choir is changing lives.
Having secured a £5000 Community Choices Small Grant in early 2024, the choir was able to offer free songwriting workshops to people facing mental health challenges, isolation, and grief.
The sessions provided a safe space for individuals to share their stories and emotions through music, transforming their personal stories into powerful songs.
The workshops brought people together in a supportive environment, offering a renewed sense of purpose, pride, and hope.
The songs, some of which have already been performed at the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival 2024, will live on in the choir's future performances, ensuring participants voices continue to be heard.
Acclaimed songwriter, and Co-Music Director of Freedom of Mind Community Choir, Kim Edgar, said::
"Songwriting has the power to heal both songwriters and listeners. Thanks to Community Choices funding, we were able to create a space where people could express their feelings, find their voice, and connect with others. The transformation we saw at the workshops was incredible - people gained confidence and found hope and healing through the sharing their stories in song. It’s been truly inspirational."
“I would encourage other groups to apply to Community Choices. The application process is straightforward and when you get the call to say you’ve secured a grant, it’s an incredible feeling – knowing your community voted for your project is worth its weight in gold. Thanks to everyone that voted for us during the last phase.”
Freedom Of Mind Community Choir is an inclusive community choir that provides regular group singing and musical activities to improve members’ physical and mental wellbeing.
The choir meet most Wednesday afternoons in Camelon Parish Church Hall. For more information, visit www.freedomofmindcommunitychoir.com