Pride of Place for Holistic Harmonies

- Róisín McManus -

The Belturbet-based ‘Holistic Harmonies’ choir has been nominated for a Pride of Place Award, in recognition of their uplifting performances in local nursing homes and at local events.

The awards acknowledge the work that communities are doing across the island of Ireland, in association with Co-operation Ireland.

Holistic Harmonies was formed under the Cavan Arts’ ‘Singing for Health’ programme to give people an outlet and a sense of community spirit.

What began as an initiative among a small group of women in Belturbet, supported by voice coach Valerie Whitworth, has grown into a vibrant, community-led group with wellbeing at its core. Over time, the choir developed both musically and socially as the participants gradually took ownership of the group.

Offering friendship, belonging, emotional support and a renewed sense of purpose, the choir supports mental health, reduces isolation, and fosters meaningful social connection, while enriching the wider community through music.

With members from Cavan Town to Bawnboy, ‘Holistic Harmonies’ perform on a voluntary basis in nursing homes, libraries and at events including Culture Night, Bealtaine and at International Women’s Day celebration in The Dock in Carrick On Shannon.

Visiting dementia units and reigniting a love for music sparks particular joy for members, says Noeleen Shannon, choir member.

“People often, even though they’ve forgotten a lot of things, they remember songs,” Noeleen explains.

“There were people who remember all the words to all the songs that they learned when they were younger,” she continues.

“It’s very emotional for us when you see that. That’s the most important thing that we do.”

Holistic Harmonies has been nominated in the Community Wellbeing category in the 2026 Pride of Place Awards, which will take place in October.