Location
Nutbourne, Chichester, West Sussex
Nutbourne, Chichester, West Sussex
Singing for health, Song leader training, composing/arranging
I am a singing for health practitioner and researcher newly relocated to West Sussex/Hampshire, UK, after living and working in London for 17 years. I am passionate about the benefits of body, breath and voice work being used to improve symptoms of ill health and disease. I have experience working with individuals and groups of all ages to support mental health and wellbeing, trauma, high blood pressure and lung health conditions such as asthma and COPD. I have also extensive experience in creating projects for inclusion and to alleviate loneliness and isolation.
After a degree in Music and Philosophy from the University of Birmingham I went on to specialise in choral conducting in Lyon, France, as well as studying jazz and improvisation. On returning to the UK I worked in London, founding community choir organisations (Vocality Singing, Choir Community, Pram Chorus and Night Chorus) and as a choir leader, setting up and running projects in schools, voluntary organisations, hospitals, care homes, work places, the wider community and online during the Covid lockdown. I also collaborated with yoga practitioners, co-leading voice and yoga retreats in the South of France, in English and French.
On founding Pram Chorus choirs for parents in 2012, I experienced myself and heard from members about the mental health and wellbeing benefits of singing, which started my journey into singing for health. I became fascinated by the biological mechanisms of group singing that are supporting and improving people’s health and quality of life. I now work as a singing for health practitioner and researcher, conducting my own research as part of a Masters degree. My particular research interests are in using group singing to reduce blood pressure and improve associated mental health issues such as anxiety. I am also the host and producer of the Singing for Health Network Podcast, which aims to bridge the gaps between research, practice, medical practice and participation.
When I am not reading/writing research papers or leading singing groups, you can find me on the netball or tennis court, walking on the beach, playing the piano or eating cake in a cafe.
A friendly and inclusive daytime singing group taking place at the beautiful Green Door Centre, where we make full use of the space by singing outside in the gorgeous gardens when weather permits. The emphasis is on having fun, playing and connecting with other lovely people through musical games and songs. By doing this we feel better physically, mentally and more able to cope with whatever life throws at us.
Sessions are led by experienced choir director and singing for health practitioner-researcher Ruth Routledge.
Free taster sessions, then £8/session if you buy a block (around 6 sessions) or £10 drop-in. Concessions available – please ask.
Any questions please contact me, Ruth: reroutledge@gmail.com
Wednesdays 11:30-12:30
Part of the climate choir movement, Portsmouth Climate Choir meets monthly on the last Monday of every month to come together in solidarity and learn songs on the theme of the climate crisis. We also take part in local and national events to peacefully protest and raise awareness of the destruction of our environment.
No singing experience or expertise is needed. Songs are taught by ear by charismatic and friendly leader Ruth Routledge.
Suggested donation £5-10 or pay what you can.
Monday 7:30-9pm - last Monday of the month. Check Facebook page for details.
