Singing together can help build community in divisive times

Singers have always known that singing is not just an art form, but something that contributes to public health and community connection, writes Peter Stobart, director at the Cork International Choral Festival

​Scrubs Choir with conductor Patrick D'Alton at the launch of the Cork International Choral Festival 2026 Programme. Picture: Alison Miles / OSM PHOTO

In a world that regularly feels fractured and focused more on differences than commonalities, there is something very powerful about people coming together to sing.

Singing together is one of the most natural ways people connect. From early human gatherings and ancient Greek choirs to medieval church music and Irish sean-nós singing, people have come together to share songs.