Let them hear our voices, singing in harmony: A qualitative case study on a workplace choir

Abstract

The present study was undertaken to investigate a novel example of music in a workplace setting, employees singing together. Music listening at work and music making in a choral context are typically separate areas of study in the current research literature. Music listening at work is associated with various positive emotional, psychological, and physical outcomes (Haake, 2011; Korzcynski, 2003; Lesiuk, 2005; Stachyra, 2015), as is active choral music participation and creation (Bailey & Davidson, 2005; Brisola & Cury, 2015; Clift, Nicol, Raisbreck, Whitmore, & Morrison, 2010; Merkt, 2012; Silber, 2005; Stewart & Lonsdale, 2016). In order to provide a foundational understanding of active music participation in a work context, a qualitative case study was used to explore a unique workplace choir that is maintained and managed by employees in a care home in Atlantic Canada. The motivations for implementing and maintaining such an ensemble were examined, as well as the perceived benefits of choir membership. Findings suggested that the implementation of this particular workplace choir was influenced by a rich musical culture in the province as well as strong organizational acceptance and support. Choir members reported numerous benefits encapsulated within the themes of Personal Wellbeing, Personal Growth, Purposeful Work, and Serving Others. The document concludes with implications for practice as well as future research.