Our recent Sing for Fun concert

Recently, we were treated to a performance from participants of our Sing for Fun workshops. To mark the summer break from the workshops, the participants invited family and friends to attend their concert ‘Songs of Summer’.

The Summer concert provided many of the Sing for Fun participants along with Michael McCartan, Artist in Residence for Singing with a moment to reflect on what singing means to them and what they get from being part of this group.

“I absolutely love coming to Sing for Fun at Richmond Barracks. It lifts me up every week. Michael is amazing, he has a lovely way of teaching. I also love that this choir is all inclusive. Great friendships have been made here” - Christine

“Sing for Fun has been the highlight of my week. It has helped me through a very difficult time in my life. Michael is a wonderful and inspiring teacher and I feel a sense of belonging to the group. It has also rekindled my love of music and motivated me to attend other musical events. Thank you so much” - Helen

What is Sing for Fun?

Sing for Fun is for anyone interested in singing as part of a group. You can join Artist in Residence Michael McCartan and learn to sing different songs and try out vocal warm-ups and exercises. No singing experience is needed, just a willingness to take part. You can book to come to one workshop or as many as you like.

Michael McCarten, Artist in Residence for Singing

Sing for Fun workshops are facilitated by Michael McCartan, Culture Connects Artist in Residence for Singing.

Michael is an experienced choir leader, conductor and musician. He holds a BA honours degree in Music from Trinity College Dublin. Michael has performed with Trinity Orchestra, Gaudeamus Chamber Choir, Campanile Consort, Mornington Singers and holds a Lay Vicar Choral position with Christ Church Cathedral Choir. In 2021 he began working with National Youth Choirs of Great Britain.

Michael’s reflections on Sing for Fun

“It is a great privilege for me to work with the Sing for Fun participants, and it has been especially rewarding to see the growth of the community, friendships forming and a love of music shared amongst the group.

"Our concert ‘Songs of Summer’ featured songs chosen by the participants and by me. Some favourites include ‘Summer’s Coming’ by the Irish composer Laura Sheils, a native American chant ‘The Earth is Our Mother’, ‘Wild Mountain Thyme’ and ‘Homeward Bound’.

“This concert was an opportunity for us to share the programme we have been working on with family, friends and the wider Richmond Barracks community.

“After the concert, many participants shared how important this group is to them and how wonderful it is to meet with other people and sing each week. I agree with them entirely; it is incredibly special to be a part of this group and to facilitate them.

“I look forward to seeing everyone again at Sing for Fun in September”.

Sing for Fun returns on Thursdays 4 September to 11 December from 11 am to 12 pm.

Booking is now open

Posted 30 July 2025
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