The Joy of Community Singing with Choirstarter James Sills | Episode 5

Today we’re joined by James Sills, musician, vocal leader, and author of Do Sing, for a joyful conversation about the simple but powerful act of singing together. James has spent the last decade bringing people together in festivals, schools, workplaces, pubs, and cathedrals — proving that singing isn’t about performance or perfection, but connection, participation, and shared human experience.We explore how singing can break down loneliness, strengthen community, and boost mental wellbeing — all while reminding us that everyone can sing. From football terraces and school assemblies to choirs like The Sofa Singers, James shares why rediscovering our voices might be one of the easiest and most uplifting ways to reconnect with each other.In this episode:Meet James Sills: Musician, vocal leader, and author dedicated to making singing accessible to everyone.Why Singing Matters: How group singing fosters belonging, connection, and mental wellbeing.Singing Without Pressure: Debunking the myth of being “tone-deaf” and rediscovering your voice.The Power of Community: From football terraces to choirs, how singing builds social bonds.Science of Singing: Why group singing can synchronise heartbeats and reduce loneliness.The Sofa Singers: How online choirs are bringing thousands of people together in song.Singing in Schools: Why bringing music back into education matters for confidence and community.An Everyday Joy: How anyone can reclaim singing at any stage of life — no experience required.The Ways to connect:www.james-sills.comDoo Sing bookPlease like, subscribe or follow, so you're notified of any new episodes coming up, and if you're keen to reach Jon or Harry with any suggestions, feedback or comments, you can contact them via the show's LinkedIn page here:https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-growth-collective-uk