Flash Company Arts

Tag: music

  • The Whitby Big Sing Returns – A Celebration of Voices, Joy and Community

    The Whitby Big Sing Returns – A Celebration of Voices, Joy and Community

    We’re thrilled to announce that the Whitby Big Sing is back for its fourth joyful year — and it’s already shaping up to be something really special.

    On Thursday 19 June 2025, schools from across the Whitby area will come together at the Whitby Spa Pavilion for a full day of music, movement, and shared creativity. This free event, which runs from 10am to 2pm, is part of the international Make Music Day celebration — connecting us to thousands of musicians and singers taking part around the world.

    As always, the Big Sing is being delivered in collaboration with Flash Company Arts, the Community Anchor Organisation for Whitby and East Whitby School with support from Julie Matthewson, and led by local singer, composer and community artist Rebecca Denniff, along with a dedicated creative team.

    What makes the Big Sing so special?

    If you’ve ever stepped into the Pavilion during a Big Sing, you’ll know the feeling: hundreds of young voices, warm-up songs echoing off the walls, teachers clapping in time, and that unmistakable sound of community rising.

    Every year, schools are invited to:

    • Perform one or two songs of their own choosing
    • Join together to learn and sing a selection of shared songs
    • Take part in energetic group warm-ups and vocal games
    • Enjoy a professional development opportunity for staff
    • And of course, take part in the full-company Big Sing to close the day

    There’s no pressure, no competition,just a chance for children to sing their hearts out on Whitby’s town stage in a fun, supportive environment.

    Looking back…

    Over the past three events, we’ve welcomed schools of all shapes and sizes — some bringing whole classes, others arriving with choirs or even their entire school. We’ve heard show tunes, pop favourites, original songs, sea shanties and everything in between. Each year has been a little different, but the atmosphere is always the same: electric, encouraging, and filled with joy.

    What’s new for 2025?

    This year’s event will also feature:

    • A lunchtime performance from young musicians in local schools
    • A preview of Flash Company Arts’ upcoming KS2 ‘5-a-day’ Song Bank — a new resource for regular singing in schools

    And as always, the event is completely free to take part in — schools just need to arrange their own transport to and from the venue.

    Want to get involved?

    If you’re a school already signed up — we can’t wait to see you!
    If you’ve never joined us before and want to know more about future events, keep an eye on our website or get in touch with the team at Flash Company Arts.

    Because when we raise our voices together — something magical happens.

    The Whitby Big Sing 2025
    🗓 Thursday 19 June
    📍 Whitby Spa Pavilion
    🎤 10am – 2pm
    🌍 Part of Make Music Day

  • Whitby Community Choir Shine at Fish & Ships Festival

    Whitby Community Choir Shine at Fish & Ships Festival

    On Saturday 17th May, the Whitby Community Choir brought something truly special to this year’s Fish & Ships Festival with a stunning pop-up performance at Dock End.

    Singing entirely a cappella, the choir stopped people in their tracks with their rich harmonies and warm presence. Their songs filled the air and lifted spirits, drawing a crowd who stayed, listened, and joined in the applause.

    The Whitby Community Choir performing a cappella at Dock End during the Fish & Ships Festival, dressed in white attire, with a historic ship and colorful flags in the background.

    A standout moment was The Lifeboat Song, written especially to mark the RNLI’s 200th anniversary. Deeply moving and perfectly placed, it paid tribute to the courage of lifeboat crews and Whitby’s strong ties to the sea. Their pop up performances were all met by a wave of heartfelt clapping.

    But it’s not just about the music. One choir member said, “Singing with the choir is the highlight of my week. It makes me feel proud to be a part of the group” That pride and sense of belonging came through in every note.

    Their performance was one part of a packed weekend that celebrated Whitby’s maritime heritage in true community style. Just across the way, the Flash Company Arts team held brilliant drop-in sessions where families helped make beautiful handmade bunting, which was proudly displayed around the Fish Craft Marquee — a vibrant splash of colour hanging proudly above the seafood demonstrations and smells of freshly cooked catch.

    From music and making to storytelling and sea shanties, Fish & Ships once again brought people together to celebrate the soul of the town — and the community that keeps it thriving.

    Whitby Community Choir is open to everyone — no auditions, no need to read music, just a love of singing and connection. They meet every Wednesday from 7:15 to 9:00pm at Flowergate Hall Community Arts Centre. The choir is led by local musician and community music specialist Rebecca Denniff, who brings warmth, creativity and a deep belief in the power of group singing.

    If you’re curious, you’re very welcome to come along — whether to join in or just listen. Find out more on their Facebook page: Whitby Community Choir.

    Whether performing at a festival or gathering midweek, this choir is a joyful reminder of what happens when voices come together.

  • A Right Royal Day Out!

    On April 3, 2025, Rebecca and David had the honour of representing Flash Company Arts at a Community Music reception hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle. Rebecca was not only there to represent Flash Company Arts but also as the chair of Sound Sense, celebrating the incredible work of community musicians across the UK and beyond.

    The event, held in St George’s Hall and the Waterloo Chamber, was a warm and welcoming gathering that brought together community musicians and organisations from all over the country. Performances were a real highlight — from the Sing for Freedom Choir and Songs for Ukraine Chorus to the London Gay Men’s Chorus (who greeted guests with songs from the balcony), the Royal College of Music Quartet, and the talented YolanDa Brown. Even the London Vegetable Orchestra joined in, leading a playful micro-workshop where the King himself had a go at playing a carrot recorder.

    Windsor Castle illuminated at night, the venue for a Community Music reception hosted by King Charles III.

    “It was an honour to meet the King and to personally thank him for shining a light on the incredible work of community musicians, especially in Whitby,” said Rebecca. “His recognition of the sector is invaluable, and it reinforces the importance of continuing to support and celebrate grassroots music-making across the UK.”

    A group of people engaging in conversation and shaking hands during a community music event at Windsor Castle, featuring King Charles III.
    Rebecca and fellow attendees with King Charles III during the Community Music reception at Windsor Castle.

    That moment with the King perfectly summed up the spirit of community music — it’s playful, inclusive, and open to everyone, whether they’re a seasoned musician or picking up a vegetable instrument for the first time. For Rebecca, attending alongside fellow Sound Sense board members and members of the wider network was both inspiring and a powerful reminder of the collective impact of community music on wellbeing and community resilience.

    Rebecca and David posing together outside Windsor Castle, with a stone tower and grassy area in the background.
    Rebecca and David pose for a photo outside Windsor Castle after attending a community music reception hosted by King Charles III.

    “This kind of recognition matters,” Rebecca noted, “but so does the ongoing work of advocacy. We need to keep making the case for our sector to ensure that community music continues to be supported, valued, and sustained for the long term.”