New Hospice Song Premiered at Summer Choir Concert

Music, community and fundraising came together in harmony at the Saint Francis Hospice Choir's summer concert, which raised more than £2,000 to support the hospice's vital care services.

The concert took place at Oaks Lane Reform Synagogue in Newbury Park, Ilford, on 7^th June and welcomed 135 attendees for an uplifting afternoon of music and celebration. The event not only showcased the talents and dedication of the choir but also highlighted the important role it continues to play in supporting Saint Francis Hospice. Since the choir was established in 2012, it has raised approximately £50,000 for the hospice through concerts and events, helping to fund the care and support provided to local people and their loved ones.

A special highlight of this year's concert was the premiere of Home from Home, a moving and poignant new song celebrating the spirit of Saint Francis Hospice.

Written by Davida Robinson, director of the hospice choir, and pianist and accompanist Jason Rose, the song beautifully captures the warmth, compassion and sense of belonging that is at the heart of hospice care. The performance and recording featured Skip Atkins on guitar, who is both a member of the choir and an ambassador for Saint Francis Hospice, alongside the harmonious voices of the choir.

Home from Home has already become a much-loved addition to the choir's repertoire. Following its debut performance, it was sung again at a special garden event on 2 July celebrating the reopening of the hospice's wards after a major refurbishment. It is hoped the piece will continue to feature at future concerts, remembrance services and hospice events for years to come.

The choir meets every Tuesday from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at Saint Francis Hospice. Rehearsals for the summer concert began at the start of the year, with members embracing the challenge of learning several new songs while also revisiting some familiar favourites. Audience participation was particularly popular, helping to create a joyful and inclusive atmosphere that reflected the community spirit of the hospice.

As well as raising valuable funds, the choir provides members with significant social, mental and physical wellbeing benefits through the power of group and harmony singing.