We do not sing a lot these days because we tend to have a phone stuck to our ear all the time, according to one of the founders of the St Paul’s Choral Society in Valletta.
Up to four decades ago, it was very common for people to hum or sing as they went about their daily chores and tasks. Our grandparents sang much more than we do, and Michael Turner blames modern gadgets for this.
“It’s because of those damn mobile phones that we always have stuck to our ears. It’s either that or earphones. I suspect that’s why we don’t sing anymore.”
Mr Turner, 76, a Briton who has been living in Malta for the last 20 years, said the act of singing releases endorphins, the brain’s “feel good” chemicals.
“Everyone should sing because it is a great stress reliever,” he said.
“Singing is the perfect antidote to a stressful day at work,” he said.
The St Paul’s Choral Society is based at St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, Valletta, and its repertoire includes anthems and masses.
“However we also sing Maltese folk songs like Mnajra, which feels like we’re at the festa – those of us who are bass have to go ‘boom, boom, boom’ like a village band. It’s great fun.”
There is a lot of musical talent here
The choir is made up of 60 members, of whom “80 per cent are Maltese”.
“There is a lot of musical talent here and the standard of music since I’ve been here has been going increasingly up,” he said.
Anyone can sing he stressed, adding that he only discovered his choral talent when in Malta.
“Before that I used to be a rugby player – and as you can imagine I used to sing just like a proper rugby player.”
St Paul’s Choral Society meets every Wednesday at in the Undercroft of St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, Valletta at 7pm. Anyone wishing to join can contact director Hugo Agius Muscat on director@spcs.info or 7970 5692.
Why singing is physically good for you
• It tones lung muscles and the diaphragm.
• It can improve our sleep.
• It improves heart circulation and decreases muscle tension.
• Our facial muscles get toned.
• Our posture improves.
• We can become more mentally alert.
• The sinuses and respiratory tubes are opened up more.
• It can help decrease the problem of snoring.
• There is a release of pain-relieving endorphins.
• It boosts the immune system.
• It can help reduce anger, depression and anxiety.
• It makes you happy.