How Singing Brings People Together | James Sills | TEDxManchester

James Sills is a musician and author who is on a mission to get people singing. But not just singing solo, James wants us to be singing together. While singing brings a range of physical & psychological benefits, James believes group singing unlocks another level of well-being through human connection and community. Watch him bring 1800 Manchester TEDsters together in joyous harmony! James is a musician, author and speaker who is on a mission to get people singing. He is a passionate advocate for the holistic benefits of communal singing and over the last decade has brought together thousands of people together at events and gatherings around the world – from choirs to conferences, workshops to workplaces, festivals to football stadiums. James uses singing to build connections, improve wellbeing and to spark joy, creating a transformational experience for all participants.

His first book, ‘Do Sing: Reclaim Your Voice. Find Your Singing Tribe’ was published in September 2019 by the Do Book Company and is described by Cerys Matthews as ‘an open door to the joyous world of singing’ and has inspired readers around the world.

Throughout his career, he has strived to create new and innovative ways for people to come together to sing. This includes founding Wrexham One Love Choir – Wales’s first homeless choir and The Sofa Singers – an online singing community. In 2020, James was awarded a Points Of Light Award from the UK government in recognition of his work to combat feelings of isolation during the Coronavirus pandemic through The Sofa Singers.

His media experience includes appearances on BBC Radio 2, BBC Radio 3, BBC One, BBC Worldwide and NBC (US). He has also appeared in most major UK newspapers and lifestyle magazines. Currently, James writes a monthly column for Psychologies, the UK’s best selling wellbeing magazine, entitled ‘Sing For Your Life.’ As a speaker, James uses the singing experience to explore issues around community, health and wellbeing, flow theory, mental health, leadership and business. James often incorporates interactive elements to his talks, making the audience active participants experiencing the power of singing for themselves.

James is also member of international a cappella troupe, the Spooky Men’s Chorale, with whom he has toured internationally for the last decade.

James lives in the hills in North Wales with his family and vinyl collection. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx