2 December 2024

The Trust's Wellbeing and Recovery College has partnered with English National Opera (ENO) to launch a Singing for Wellbeing project.

Introduced during the autumn term, this initiative brought together participants from diverse backgrounds to explore the therapeutic benefits of music and opera.

The pilot project took place at the MINDSPORTS venue in Hammersmith and Fulham, welcoming members of the Dementia Action Alliance alongside students from the Wellbeing and Recovery College.

The course was led by Project Facilitator Rob Gildon, supported by Emily Smith and James Carvalho from ENO's Engage team, and accompanied by talented pianists Caroline Jaya-Ratnam, Elspeth Wilkes, and Jack Ridley. Adding a special touch, ENO opera singer Sarah-Jane Lewis delivered a breathtaking performance from La bohème .

Participants sang a variety of songs, including “Music Was My First Love” by John Miles, the classic “O Sole Mio” by Giovanni Capurro, and pieces from renowned operas like Peter Grimes and La traviata .Alongside singing, the group also focused on mindfulness and self-expression, enhancing their overall experience and wellbeing.

The course concluded in a spectacular finale with participants showcasing their progress in front of family members, caregivers, and guests.

A theatre experience to remember

Thanks to ENO’s generosity, participants were invited to attend performances at the London Coliseum. Highlights included Jonathan Miller’s iconic production of La bohème ,set in 1930s Paris, and a relaxed performance of The Elixir of Love , designed to make theatre more accessible to all.

Research consistently highlights the profound benefits of music and opera in promoting engagement, social connectedness, and emotional wellbeing. This pilot project reinforced these findings, demonstrating how music can foster joy and build meaningful connections among participants.

What’s Next?

The Wellbeing and Recovery College plans to expand its creative offerings by forging new collaborations with local and national arts organisations. Its partnership with ENO will continue, bringing more opportunities for students to explore opera and music in the coming months.

Upcoming ENO events:

  • Thursday 30 January, 1pm – Relaxed performance of The Pirates of Penzance at the London Coliseum Theatre.
  • Monday 3 February, 1.30pm – Dress rehearsal of The Marriage of Figaro at the London Coliseum Theatre.
  • Friday 14 February, 10.30 to 12pm – Singing workshop on stage at the London Coliseum, led by Rob Gildon, exploring themes of love, friendship, and connection.

These events are free of charge for Wellbeing and Recovery College students as part of ENO’s community access programme. Spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so early application is encouraged.

For more information about the Singing for Wellbeing programme and upcoming events, visit Wellbeing & Recovery College :: West London NHS Trust.

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