Singers spring to success

University of Queensland students from eight countries have won a national YouTube video competition to show Australia that singing can help build stronger communities.

The 30 English language students from UQ’s Institute of Continuing and TESOL Education (ICTE-UQ) won the popular vote in the ‘Sing for Spring’ competition.

ICTE-UQ language teacher Vicki Bos, who last month won an English Australia Award for her work with the ICTE-UQ chorus, said singing was a great way to connect with others and beat stress.

“Research shows that singing releases endorphins and oxytocin and lowers the stress hormone cortisol,” Ms Bos said.

“Basically, singing makes you feel great.” 

Ms Bos started the ICTE-UQ Chorus in 2008 to give students a fun way to learn English, make friends and enrich their UQ experience beyond the classroom.

Because many of the international students are away from family and friends for the first time, the chorus has come to mean much more to them.

“Students can come to chorus feeling stressed from study or even a little homesick,” Ms Bos said.

“The energy and enthusiasm when we sing together is infectious. It’s impossible to leave a rehearsal or finish a performance without feeling happier.

“Sing for Spring is a great way for the ICTE-UQ Chorus to help spread the message that group singing is a really simple, fun way to grow stronger communities.”

To view the ICTE-UQ Chorus entry visit: http://singforspring.gofundraise.com.au/page/ICTEUQChorus

Funds raised will support the With One Voice community choir projects in three states. Winning entries will be screened in Federation Square in Melbourne.

Established in 1981, ICTE-UQ is a centre of excellence for English language training, English language teacher training and professional development.

Media: Frances Wickerson, ICTE-UQ Communications Officer, E: f.wickerson@icte.uq.edu.au, T: (07) 3346 6712