Bolton Cancer Voices Choir invitation to new members

Bolton Cancer Voices, established in 2012, is one of the few dedicated choirs for people with cancer in the country and is now opening up their membership to anyone who has ever been given a diagnosis.

The choir, which has 40 members currently, is keen to welcome in new voices from ‘seasoned performers’ to those who are simply enthusiastic to give singing a try.

Karen Elliott, Founder and Chair of the choir, said: “We’re a really friendly choir and everyone is assured a warm welcome.

“People choose to join us at different points in their cancer journey. Some at the point of their diagnosis, some at completion of treatment. Others are living with cancer as a chronic disease or are many years on from the period of their illness.”

The purpose of the choir gives members a chance to forget about ongoing treatments or their next scan, allowing them to appreciate the time to sing with friends and fellow members.

For many, the group has been an integral part of their journey after their cancer diagnosis, pledging to be there for people in their own positive and innovative way.

Karen believes that now is an ideal time for new members to join, as they begin their Christmas programme in preparation for their annual ‘Jingle Bell Sing-A-Long’ concert at the Victoria Hall in Bolton.

“Rehearsals provide an invaluable opportunity for those living with, or beyond cancer to benefit from meeting others in a similar situation,” she said.

“This is a wonderful and unique opportunity to be part of something very special. While a cancer diagnosis is the only criterion for membership, the disease is certainly not allowed to define or restrict the choir.”

Last year, they participated in a concert at the Royal Albert Hall in London and aren’t planning on stopping, usually being involved with between six to eight appearances each year.

To read more about their story and becoming a member, visit boltoncancervoices.org.uk or contact Karen on 01204 595 562.