Support quality, independent, local journalism…that matters

From just £1 a month you can help fund our work – and use our website without adverts. Become a member today

Ten years ago, Side by Side Choir was set up to make music “accessible, welcoming, and supportive for everyone”.

The choir was set up in Caerphilly in 2016 to provide a welcoming musical space for people with Autism. It has since expanded to include people with long-term health conditions, additional needs, and those experiencing social isolation.

Rikki Pullen, the choir’s founder and musical director, said: “Side by Side began with a simple belief that music should be accessible, welcoming and supportive for everyone.

“Over the past ten years we have built a community where people feel safe to participate at their own pace.”

Choir member Kerri said: “The choir members are incredibly welcoming and I felt comfortable walking into choir on my own when my partner was not able to attend, as the members are now like friends.

“The use of [Microsoft] Teams means people who cannot attend in person can still take part. We even joined from our holiday in Spain and came away feeling really positive.”

Recently, the group celebrated being named Charity Choir of the Year at the Wales Prestige Awards.

Rikki said: “Winning Charity Choir of the Year in our tenth year feels like a celebration of everything our members and volunteers have achieved together.”

The choir will celebrate its tenth anniversary with a free-to-attend concert at Caerphilly Workmen’s Hall on June 27.

As part of its anniversary celebrations, the choir has launched its “10 for 10” community campaign, aiming to fundraise and raise awareness of the choir’s work.

New members are welcome, with free weekly rehearsals every Tuesday at 6.30pm at Caerphilly Workmen’s Hall.