Fifty singers from four Dorset care homes joined voices for a special musical gathering with plans already under way for a festive encore.
Parties from Colten Care’s Abbey View in Sherborne, Newstone House in Sturminster Newton and Whitecliffe House in Blandford were hosted at the provider’s Castle View in Poundbury.
The performance featured popular favourites chosen by residents such as The Happy Wanderer, Summer Holiday and The Skye Boat Song.
The event was planned and led by Colten Care’s Music and Arts Partner Fiona Pritchard, who helped residents rehearse in small group practices at each home in the weeks leading up to the gathering.
“This was the first time everyone had sung together,” said Fiona, who played guitar and sang to accompany the choristers. “It’s always special to bring people together through music and song. Seeing their joy at the sound that filled the room was wonderful. We raised the roof!”
Newstone House resident Tony Stock added his own musical flair by accompanying the singing on snare drum, while Castle View Head Chef Beata Kaczynska, a finalist for Care Home Chef of the Year at the forthcoming National Care Awards 2026, prepared a spread of homemade cakes and refreshments for hosts and visitors.
The gathering was warmly received by residents. Roy Carne, who lives at Abbey View, said: “Everyone joined in and sang together, it was a very enjoyable afternoon.”
Fellow Abbey View resident Brian Moreby described the event as ‘lovely’, adding: “I’m amazed at how well organised it was with so many people attending.”
Castle View resident Doreen Rogers praised Fiona, saying: “Everyone loved her enthusiasm and vitality.”
And Whitecliffe House resident Ruth Horrocks said the experience brought back happy girlhood memories of singing in her choir at school.
Also attending was Colten Care’s Chief Operating Officer Elaine Farrer, who highlighted the wider value of experiences such as choir singing for residents.
Elaine said: “Bringing residents together through shared experiences such as music and song can make a real difference to their wellbeing and quality of life. It gives people opportunities to build friendships, enjoy familiar interests, create new memories and feel part of something special.
“At Colten Care, our focus is always on the individual. That means understanding what matters to each person and creating opportunities for them to continue enjoying the things they love. Experiences such as participating in a pop-up choir reflect our commitment to helping residents enjoy refined living, with meaningful activities, enriching experiences and the freedom to express themselves and share moments of joy with others.”
Such was the success of the afternoon, Newstone House is planning to return the compliment by hosting a pre-Christmas ‘song spectacular’, welcoming residents from the other three homes for another opportunity to sing together.
Fiona said: “Everyone gelled and it’s really nice that they want to do something more for Christmas.”
