SINGING MEDICINE

Singing Medicine is an award winning project delivered by Ex Cathedra at Birmingham Children's Hospital which enables children with life-limiting conditions to participate in singing activities and experience the wider benefits of singing.

Ex Cathedra believes that children who are in hospital for long or regular periods are equally entitled to access to the arts as when living in their own communities. Singing Medicine provides this access by using the far-ranging and wonderful benefits of singing to brighten the lives of the children and their families.

The project began in 2004 as a partnership programme with Youth Music and Birmingham Children’s Hospital. Initially funded for 12 months, the impact was so positive that it has been running since. After winning the regional award in the children’s category of the NHS Health and Social Care Awards the project was demonstrated and presented at the NHS Live Conference and the Association of British Orchestras conference. Singing Medicine was featured on the Creative Remedies website as an example of best practice.

Singing Medicine is now also delivered at the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford. Ex Cathedra's vocal tutors have trained students from Oxford University to deliver the project.

'Singing Medicine makes you feel better and helps you play.' (Harrison, aged 6)

'He really enjoys himself and can feel that bit brighter. There's a reason to get to the end of the week - because Singing Medicine is going to be there.' (Parent)