Choir members record moving performance of original song to raise funds for Age UK

To keep members of his choirs in touch and working together, North End singing teacher Josh Robinson wrote a song inspired by lockdown for everyone to perform together.

Josh, who runs Encore Choirs in Petersfield and Farnham with his fiancee Gemma Ford, took on his first attempt at songwriting to produce Let Light, Let Love.

His aim was to use the power of music to connect people during these uncertain times, spreading a message of hope and showing music has the power to bring people together.

Josh, 24, said: ‘The project was in aid of Age UK, for those who are older and may not have the same and well-needed connections during this time. We want to ensure everyone is connected, and by using the power of music we can lift people’s spirits.’

He added: ‘It all came together in a bit of a blur. What was really nice was I was able to connect with my family who live hours away and they all joined in.

‘I was really happy with all the people who had taken part and it gave me a buzz.’

Encore Choirs opened in September last year, and it offers choirs and vocal tuition for anyone who loves to sing.

Josh said: ‘The good thing about our choir is that you don’t need to read music and anyone can join even if you’re not a singer. The main thing is that people enjoy themselves and come away with a smile.’

Sessions are being run online using the platform Zoom, on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings from 7.30pm to 8.30 pm.

Passionate teacher Josh, who is looking to open a choir in Portsmouth when he can, said: ‘Our choirs are all the closest of friends and we love welcoming people into our choir family whether it be online or in person.’

To help combat isolation, Josh has also been running an online coffee morning through Zoom on Saturdays which is open to anyone.

For more information, visit encorechoirs.co.uk or visit gf.me/u/yc3nbq to donate to Age UK.

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