A safe haven in song
Choir With No Name
Choir With No Name (CWNN) provides a safe, supportive space for people with lived experience of homelessness or who are otherwise marginalised in society.
A safe haven in song
Choir With No Name
A UK charity which runs singing groups for people who are going through a tough time.
Choir With No Name (CWNN) provides a safe, supportive space for people with lived experience of homelessness or who are otherwise marginalised in society.
CWNN currently has four groups nationwide. Their Liverpool choir was founded in 2014.
The group has over 60 members who come together on a weekly basis to feel the joy of singing collectively. Participating in this community of singers with shared experiences enables group members to build confidence and learn new skills. Many identify regular participation in the choir as vital to their sense of wellbeing.
Coming to the choir got me out of the hostel and brought me out of my shell. Music allows me to express myself.
Coming to the choir got me out of the hostel and brought me out of my shell. Music allows me to express myself
In the Spotlight
Hidden: A Documentary Short
Prior to the pandemic, CWNN groups met in person to sing in unison and share a hot meal cooked by volunteers. This was a warm, friendly, safe space where members could come together, catch up and share food as a family.
‘Hidden’ A documentary about Choir With No Name Liverpool produced by LIPA students Molly Glinn and Georgie Grace.
There were significant challenges to continuing this work during COVID-19 restrictions, but organisers, volunteers and members of CWNN worked tirelessly to maintain their connections. A documentary short produced by students, Molly Glinn and Georgie Grace, from Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) shows this in action.
‘Hidden’ A documentary about Choir With No Name Liverpool produced by LIPA students Molly Glinn and Georgie Grace.
It shouldn’t matter what situation you’re in, it shouldn't matter what else is going on in your life or what box you fit into in society, everybody deserves a place to sing and have fun.
Covid-19 and beyond
CWNN sessions moved to Zoom during the COVID-19 lockdowns. This created challenges for members in digital poverty or otherwise unable to connect online. Those able to attend enjoyed fun sessions around particular musical themes, music-related activities and opportunities to create costumes.
During periods when restrictions were eased, members were able to rehearse in outdoor spaces, reconnecting with those who had been unable to participate online.
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