“Singing your heart out” is more than an expression of joy and enthusiasm. Studies have shown that singing has a profound impact on health and healing, including benefits to your heart, lungs, brain and more. It also reduces stress and can contribute to positive mental and social health through the development of self‐expression and interpersonal relationships, particularly among community groups of singers.
The Zamir Choral Foundation offers a variety of choral music experiences which aim to inspire community, including the annual North American Jewish Choral Festival for all ages; HaZamir Preparatory Program for middle school grades; HaZamir: The International Jewish Teen Choir for high school students; Zamir Noded for young people 18-35; and the acclaimed Zamir Chorale, the flagship ensemble for adults.
Maestro Matthew Lazar, founder and director of Zamir Choral Foundation says that “Learning interconnected text and music while harmonizing with peers in a choir helps to develop a variety of cognitive, artistic and social skills. It nurtures the mind, body and soul.”
According to neurosurgeon Dr. Sanjay Gupta singing keeps the brain active and healthy. He explains that combining music and lyrics does something not often seen: It activates multiple areas of the brain at the same time, which is good for physical health as well as mental health.
Psychotherapist Sarah Reynolds, Ph.D. further states that “The shared experience of creating beautiful music together brings joy and fulfillment. In those moments, stress dissipates, replaced by a sense of harmony within and around us. The mental stimulation and challenge provided by choir singing contribute to maintaining a sharp and agile mind. From enhancing emotional resilience to promoting social connection, alleviating stress, encouraging mindfulness and fostering a sense of purpose and achievement, choir singing is a powerful tool.”
Choral singing has an impact on quality of life as well. Sociologist Ray Oldenburg coined the phrase “third place” as a gathering location beyond home and work where people go to connect with others. He determined that these places are crucial to a balanced, happy life.
“We’ve seen first-hand that being part of a larger community boosts self-confidence and helps to alleviate anxiety,” adds Vivian Lazar, director of HaZamir: The International Jewish Teen Choir. “Singing with others helps create positive feelings as well as a support system and the positive energy is multiplied within the group setting.”
The Zamir musical programs offer a welcoming environment in which to express Jewish identity through choral singing and an opportunity to form lasting connections with others who have mutual interests. For more information visit www.zamirchoralfoundation.org.
