Velocity, Singing for Fun
I don’t know where I’d be if it weren’t for this group, with my anxiety and mental health, even my community links worker is so proud of me and how I’m doing.
Singing for Fun is an innovative, creative community-led singing programme based in Calton and funded by Clyde Gateway. It was established as part of the Glasgow Life Velocity Artist in Residence programme and the Live Well Community Referral pilot. Launched in June 2022, the project provides weekly creative sessions that support health and well-being through song, offering a space for connection and expression.
Supported by a cohort of artists including Karen MacIver, Tina Freeland, Alan Penman, Shelly Coyne, Màiri Morrison, Lindsay Ashworth and John Binnie, Singing for Fun invites participants of all backgrounds to come together through music. The free sessions require no previous singing experience and form part of a broader strategy to link creative activity to social prescribing and community referrals across the city.
In 2023, the group received additional funding from UNESCO City of Music. During this time, participants performed at events connected to Glasgow Life’s Artists in Communities programme and UCI Glasgow Cycling Go Live, sharing their talents with the public. In December 2023, the group was invited to perform carols and festive songs at the Calton Christmas Light Switch-On at St Luke’s Church.
Singing for Fun
This film captures a sharing by pupils from St. Anne’s Primary, developed through creative sessions with Velocity artists, exploring geo-thermal and renewable energy within Cuningar Loop, in their local area.
Singing for FunI recently had a wee visit to the hospital with my asthma and COPD. When I told the doctor I was in a singing group, he said that was one of the best things I could do to help with my symptoms.
In 2024, Singing for Fun partnered with ANYiSO to deliver a pilot in Glasgow’s North West, supporting Black and Minority Ethnic women and their families. The sessions included intergenerational singing workshops that promoted wellbeing and cultural exchange. Artists gained valuable insights, helping shape a more inclusive future delivery.
In 2025, Singing for Fun took part in intergenerational events and sessions as part of the Velocity AIC Sustainable programme, Exploring Sustainability and Transition to net zero. The group collaborated with Riverbank Primary, Restart Bridgeton, Lodging House Mission, and Castlemilk Writers to explore themes of sustainability and climate action through creative performance and shared learning. Singing for Fun also performed as part of Glasgow850 community choirs at the new Parkhead health hub opening event on 22 May 2025.
A special thanks to community partners, supporters and contributors: Riverbank Primary School | NHS Restart Bridgeton | Lodging House Mission 360 | St Anne’s Primary School | Castlemilk Writers | ANYiSO | UNESCO City of Music | Calton Heritage and Learning Centre | Glasgow Life’s Live Well Community Referral Colleagues.
