Speyside care home sounds the right note with new choir

Residents and staff at a Moray care home have formed their own choir.

The Heart Strings choir at Speyside Care Home in Aberlour have delivered their debut performance, with a reimagined version of the classic ‘Climb Every Mountain’ from the Sound of Music one of several titles performed.

Led by Speyside activities coordinators Moya Boonzaaier and Amanda Shaw, the choir has put its own twist on the timeless lyrics, capturing the distinctive spirit and sense of community within the care home.

After weeks of rehearsals, the choir delivered their debut performance in front of an audience of invited relatives and guests this weekend.

Other songs in their repertoire include classics such as "You Are My Sunshine," "My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean," "It's a Long Way to Tipperary," and "Pack Up Your Troubles."

Louise Gillies, manager of Speyside, who also performs in the choir, said: “The Heart Strings choir is a wonderful example of the joy and togetherness that music brings, and the lyrics of our own version of Climb Every Mountain reflect the sense of belonging that our residents feel in being part of a care home community.

“I want to thank Moya and Amanda who have been instrumental in setting up the choir. They have performed with, and supported, our residents and given them the confidence to express themselves through song. The joy and camaraderie that the choir brings to our home is truly heart-warming, and we are proud to showcase their talents to our community."

For residents, the experience has brought everyone closer together.

Betty Hay said: “I have enjoyed being part of the choir, singing makes me happy and smile. I enjoy being part of the group.”

Nan Allan said: “I like singing, I have done it most of my days. Choosing old songs has been great, It’s a long way to Tipperary is one of my favourites.”

Christine Yuill added: “Singing is good for the soul. It’s been a bonding experience for all of us taking part in the choir and I hope that more people will join us after seeing us.”

In addition to their musical endeavours, the team from Speyside have also taken up residence at Aberlour Station Tearoom, where they run a weekly pop-up tea-room every Thursday from 2-4.30 pm.

Speyside was recently awarded a 5-star (very good) rating by the Care Inspectorate who found a strong sense of community within the home. Inspectors noted that “the home was integrated into the local community and people were visible and active members of the village.”

The lyrics of Climb Every Mountain (find your place in Speyside):

Climb every mountain, ford every stream

Find your place in Speyside – don’t forget to dream

It’s here where you’ll find your new home from home

And a laugh shared with friends where the fun never ends

Climb every mountain, ford every stream

Follow every rainbow – till you find your dream!

Watch the performance here:

Further performances are available on the Speyside Facebook page: www.facebook.com/SpeysideCareHome