2024/11/29 by Raju, Marju, Davidjants, Brigitta
#FOS: Arts (arts #FOS: Psychology #history of arts #music) #performing arts
paper · doi:10.58162/remf-rz26
In Estonia, choral singing is one of the most common hobbies across all age groups. The popularity of choral singing can be explained, amongst other things, by the positive impact of music on emotion regulation and mental well-being, and by the support of a strong group identity, also among vulnerable groups in society. At the same time, choral singing also involves public performances, which can cause discomfort in people with higher anxiety levels. In this case study of the Estonian LGBTQ+ mixed choir Vikerlased, the impact of singing on mental well-being was investigated using both qualitative (in-depth and focus group interviews, autoethnography, rehearsal and performance observation) and quantitative research methods (original questionnaire combined with the CAD-7 anxiety assessment tool). This article focuses on the analysis of quantitative data. The results revealed differences in participants’ self-perceived anxiety and mood before and after the choir rehearsal and the performance. On average, mood scores increased while anxiety scores decreased, but only for performances was this change statistically significant. Keywords: mental well-being, vulnerable groups, impact of music, amateur choirs, LGBTQ+