On Wednesday, August 9, Jess Arrowsmith held a one-off version of her 'Can't Sing, Won't Sing?' workshops for beginners and unconfident singers at the Methodist Church.

Jess explained that many people have been told they 'can't sing' at some point in their lives or feel that their voice isn't good enough to sing in public or even when alone.

To help participants, Jess began with warm-up activities such as stretching and breathing exercises. She then moved on to practising scales and singing rounds. The workshop culminated in an lovely rendition of the chorus of the traditional Appalachian folk song 'Mariah's gone'.

Participant Atvar Panesar said: “The workshop has opened up the world of singing for me.”

Linda Rowland added: “I absolutely loved the session and it's inspired me to join a beginners' singing course when I return home.”

Workshop leader Jess Arrowsmith said: “At the start everyone was a bit nervous but their confidence grew and by the final song they were creating a big, full, glorious sound in this beautiful space.”