Bolton Cancer Voices, the Choir for cancer patients and cancer survivors is holding an open evening on Monday, 3rd of June to inspire potential new members to join them.

Each year over 1400 local people receive a cancer diagnosis. The Choir accepts people at any stage in their cancer journey whether newly diagnosed, in treatment, living with cancer as a life-limiting condition or a cancer survivor.

The Choir, which aims to provide a positive, motivational and diversionary environment in which members can have fun, enjoy the challenges and exhilaration of performing and have a focus aside from their illness also offers an informal forum for cancer patients and cancer survivors to meet with others in a similar situation and benefit from mutual support and understanding.

The Choir rehearses under the baton of Clive Rushworth, a well-known and respected Musical Director with many years’ experience. Clive takes a relaxed approach to rehearsals and ensures everyone feels comfortable no matter what their level of experience or musical ability. There are no auditions and no membership fees to worry about.

Karen Elliott, Chair of Bolton Cancer Voices said: -

The Choir is having a real impact on people’s lives; members are finding their involvement empowering, people share their highs and lows and have lots of laughs together.

We recently asked our members for their comments about what the Choir means to them and these are just a few of the responses we received: -

‘The Choir has added 100% to my quality of life since cancer; music works wonders.’ – Lynne - breast cancer patient

‘It is great to be singing with others who have had similar experiences to oneself. It gives a great feeling of happiness and joy.’ – Endometrial cancer patient

‘It’s great to sing lovely music, which rallies our spirits and when we give recitals it’s great to be able to entertain others.’ – Mike

‘Spending time with others who have had similar experiences to myself has helped me tremendously, together with first-rate instruction from a great Choirmaster. It has been very uplifting.’ – Breast cancer sufferer

‘Meeting and singing with the Choir has helped me during a very difficult time.’ – Bette

‘A welcome break from Hospital visits.’ – Susan

We have exciting plans for the Choir, which include seeing it become 70 strong. We appreciate that due to their illness or treatment people may not always be well enough to attend rehearsals but we don’t consider this a barrier and neither should anyone else. I would encourage anyone who meets our criteria for membership to come along and see the fun we have for themselves.

The Choir rehearses on Monday evenings, 7.30pm – 9pm at the Friends’ Meeting House, Silverwell Street, Bolton.

All enquiries to Karen Elliott on 01204 595562 / 07773 164235