The Song Seeking project provides access to musical and creative opportunities for people living in temporary accommodation
Song Seeking is a transformative initiative that preserves participants’ connection to their homeland whilst fostering new relationships and instilling a sense of belonging through cultural exchange. The programme has documented many benefits for the social, mental and physical well-being of participants. It creates strong opportunities for integration into Irish society and creates mutual understanding. The project continuously evaluates and collects the experiences of participants to ensure greatest impact and value.
Song Seeking is not merely a singing programme; it’s a source of emotional support, a platform for cultural expression, and a catalyst for personal growth.
Song Seeking was piloted as a 12-month action research project from 1 September 2018. Funded by Creative Ireland, it was delivered by Mary Immaculate College and Sing Ireland. The outputs of the programme included:
- 60 singing sessions at 6 DPCs
- 5 SingIn events with local community choir partners
- 6 composer sessions, 1 at each DPC
- 302 Singers
- The Big Sing at National Concert Hall
- Creation of the Song Seeking Song Book; a compilation of songs from the project.
- Research Report published which contained recommendations to inform policy, practice, and research directions to ensure inclusion, relevance, and access for migrant arts and cultural participation, policy, and practice.
In 2022 Sing Ireland was selected as an awardee of Rethink Ireland's Impact Fund for Munster. This has enabled the development of the programme across Clare, Limerick and Tipperary. Working in 5 temporary accommodation settings, primarily with participants from Ukraine, the Song Seeking project has built pathways for connection to the local community and opportunties for the participants to come together in song, to support their wellbeing and to provide a social outlet.