Staff participate in virtual choir tribute to NHS

12 May 2020

The Choir Project MCR has teamed up virtually with members of Northenden Community Choir and the Royal Northern College of Music and Deloitte staff choirs, joined by musical theatre singer Kerry Ellis and poet Tony Walsh

Manchester choirs have performed Coldplay’s Fix You as a tribute to all the NHS and health workers who have lost their lives to Covid-19.

And some of our own staff who are members of Northenden Community Choir took part in the virtual recording, which involved them all recording their parts individually at home. Their recordings were then edited together by Jamie Henry.

HR Partner Jo Couling said: "Essentially we all learnt the parts for the song (there are three sections, soprano, alto, tenor) in weekly Zoom virtual choir practices, which replaced our usual practice at Northenden social club. 

"The choir has always been an amazing way to support my wellbeing by connecting with people, learning something new and feeling part of something which brings a lot of happiness.

"Learning the song and performing it together was incredibly moving and I’m very proud to be part of it, and to pay tribute to our wonderful NHS."

Other staff members who were part of more than 100 voices performing were: professor of politics Francesca Gains, trainee educational psychologist Emma Forshaw, Manchester Museum's engagement manager Anna Bunney, research fellow Lamiece Hassan, and programme manager Pui Wong.  

Emma said: "Being involved in the choir project during lockdown has given me a sense of purpose and I feel more connected to my local community. It’s also a bit of fun which is a welcome relief from the everyday stresses."

Francesca adds: "It took me several attempts to do a recording I can tell you but I am so glad to have been part of this moving tribute. I have so much respect and  admiration for those providing care for others in the NHS and the community through this challenging period."

Reflecting on the experience, founding member Lamiece said: "This performance shows that even in isolation, we are still finding ways to come together to perform, show solidarity and support our community - and each other."