Citizens of the World Choir

With support from Music for All, the Citizens of the World Choir has had a truly extraordinary year – and we couldn’t be prouder to have played a part.

Here are some of the choir’s extraordinary achievements:

• Backing vocals on Ed Sheeran’s chart-topping singles Azizam & Sapphire
• Winners of the 2024 London Dangoor Award for Promoting Inclusion
• Release of their powerful, cross-cultural album Echo of Your Voice
• Performed at Glastonbury’s Opening Ceremony + Science Museum, Barbican Theatre, BBC Radio & more

It wasn’t just about the big opportunities. The grant provided a crucial space for respite, healing and connection, and for processing trauma. As one member, Newroz, eloquently put: ‘When we sing together, we breathe. And when we breathe, we let go of toxic air, worries, and anxieties.’ Another participant reported that a singing workshop left them feeling ‘uplifted’ and ‘so special’, after battling mental health struggles and suicidal thoughts. 

89% of the Citizens of the World Choir members said the choir helped them adjust to life in London and meet social needs, proving just how powerful community and creativity can be.

Support from Music for All enabled the choir to create two dedicated roles – Rehearsal Assistant and Outreach Assistant – filled by individuals with lived experience of forced migration. These positions not only diversified the choir’s staff but also helped foster a supportive and empowering environment where refugee team members could gain valuable professional experience and contribute meaningfully to the choir. 

This is exactly why we champion equal access to music-making opportunities for all. Are you ready to join the movement? Then sign our Music Makers’ Charter petition for free: https://www.change.org/p/music-makers-charter