In November 2015, we had the incredible honour of stepping onto the stage at TEDxSquareMile to deliver our talk, ‘Why the World Needs to Sing’.
TEDx events bring together inspiring speakers to share ideas that transform communities. The theme for the event was ‘Get Connected’, and when challenged to speak about connection, we did not need to look any further than our own Starling Arts community for life-changing proof. Ten years on, we reflect on the experience.
The Transformative Power of Group Singing
Regardless of background or experience, singing with others is an uplifting and accessible tool that everyone can embrace. Over the years, we have witnessed group singing build deep friendships, foster trust, and boost mental and physical wellbeing. It builds confidence, helps people navigate personal obstacles, and, most importantly, gives individuals a genuine sense of belonging.
In an increasingly disconnected world, community is everything.
To bring our message to life during the talk, we got the entire audience up on their feet, led them through a quick physical warm-up, and had the whole room singing in vibrant three-part harmony. The atmosphere was electric. Experiencing a room full of strangers connect through song proved just how immediate and transformative music-making can be.
The Emotional Rollercoaster of Giving a TEDx Talk
Preparing and delivering an 18-minute talk was one of the most exciting - and challenging - experiences of our lives. Making a talk look effortless requires significant work behind the scenes.
Looking back, these were the distinct stages of emotion we experienced as speakers:
Excitement: It is going to be a dream come true to share our passion for group singing with the world!
Reality Check: Is this really happening? We had better start planning...
Over-Confidence: This will be easy, we have so much to say!
Overwhelm: How do we condense years of stories and passion into just 18 minutes?
The Drafting Process: Let us write the talk... and then rewrite it five times until it hits the mark!
Nerves: How will we remember everything while staying calm? How do TED speakers make this look so easy?
Elation: WOW! Stepping off that stage was the best feeling ever!
Watch the Talk
Sharing our passion for group singing on the TEDx stage reminded us why we founded Starling Arts. Whether in community choirs, schools, or workplace singing workshops, the connective power of song changes lives.
You can watch our full TEDx talk, ‘Why the World Needs to Sing’, below:
Watch Our TEDx Talk: Why the World Needs to Sing