Joy Sykes followed the same path as her husband Martin by joining Claritas 18 months ago. The Macclesfield couple are in different sections of the choir — Joy is an alto while Martin sings bass.
Joy said: “I went along and listened to the concerts and thought they were amazing. Having joined the choir, I feel so happy with it and there’s no pressure. Everyone just wants to enjoy themselves.”
“I love music, I’m not a musical person but I thought I’ll give it a go and I’ve loved it. The songs are what everyone wants to hear and Tim, the musical director, makes it such good fun. You work hard but you have a laugh and enjoy it.”
“You also feel you’re in a team and everyone made me feel welcome. I couldn’t do harmonies when I joined, but I never felt out of it and felt I was getting better. People think when you join a choir that you need to read music and understand scales, but that’s not necessary. It’s about having a good time singing.”
“For me it’s a win-win situation. I enjoy the Monday night practices. I’ve made new friends and we’re collecting money for the hospice. On every level it’s been good for me.”
Joy also volunteers with the hospice motor neurone group monthly. She said: “I give out lunches and make teas and help in the background while the nurses and other professionals do what they’ve got to do. The MND group has a great atmosphere.”
