TWO construction professionals are hoping to help colleagues in the sector de-stress and get to know each other through the launch of a construction choir.
Claire Rosset, head of architecture – Scotland at BakerHicks, and Molly Armstrong, sustainability graduate at BakerHicks, are launching the Building Harmony construction networking choir next Wednesday (April 19) at Glasgow’s Adelaide Place on 209 Bath Street in a free-to-attend event.
Speaking to Project Scotland, Claire explained that it is hoped that singing can be used to break the awkwardness and stress that is sometimes experienced at more traditional networking events.
“As construction professionals we attend a variety of networking opportunities, whether they are drinks events, presentations, or the usual golf experiences,” Claire explained. “While these are all great in their own way, they are not necessarily for everyone – for some people, attending a networking drinks event, for example, can fill them with dread at the very notion of approaching people they don’t know to start a conversation. With this venture, we are hoping to have the singing as a bit of an ice breaker and a talking point.”
A wide range of construction professionals have already registered for the free event, with Claire revealing that some are aware of their singing voice and can read music whilst others are complete novices.
“The event is fully accessible to all no matter your ability,” she continued. “I am sure people will be surprised at what they are able to achieve; I am a firm believer that everyone can sing and everyone can learn how to use their own instrument with a wee bit of practice!”
Further to allowing those in the construction sector to get to know each other a bit better, Claire and Molly are also hoping it can help individuals de-stress from the pressures of their roles.
A 2015 study by the University of Oxford revealed that choir singing is ‘particularly beneficial’ for improving breathing, posture, and muscle tension as well as psychological boosts. It can also aid in pain relief, with it releasing neurochemicals such as β-Endorphin.
“On a personal note, I have been in choirs since I was six years old – beginning as a child in the Glasgow Youth Choir and continuing throughout my life singing across Scotland and during my time in London,” Claire explained. “I have always found that at the end of a stressful day, having a creative outlet is a perfect way to blow off steam and relieve those tensions. Similarly, Molly has been in choirs since a young age and has always found that music is her outlet of choice when things get tough.”
Asked what she would say to anyone considering coming but is a bit tentative because they’ve never been involved in choir singing before, Claire said she and Molly hope everyone will consider coming along.
“The focus will be on creating a fun and inclusive environment where we can meet new people, learn something new or potentially reignite some old passions.” She added, before telling that there will be room for an encouraging audience if anyone finds singing isn’t for them but they’d like to come along to provide support.
To sign up, click here.
