The Northern Lights Community Choir, launched in January 2025, held its much-anticipated debut concert on Sunday, 13 July at St Mark’s Church, Darlington. The sell-out event, attended by over 200 people, was a joyful celebration of music, community and wellbeing.
Performing a vibrant repertoire of uplifting contemporary songs, the 50 choir members—drawn entirely from the local community—raised the rafters with their energy and spirit. The concert was supported by the Deputy Mayor of Darlington, Cllr Helen Crumbie, and received generous sponsorship from Whitehouse Funeral Service, who funded the choir’s t-shirts for the occasion.
John and Julie Whitehouse, who attended the event, reflected: “Their performance was a powerful reminder of the strength found in community and the healing power of music. The choir’s dedication was evident in every song, every round of applause, and every smile shared today. It was a privilege to be there.”
The choir is part of St Mark’s Church’s thriving Health and Wellbeing Hub, which was established 10 months ago to support the local community. Now welcoming over 200 people each week, the hub has become a beacon of support and connection in the area.
Revd Caroline Ferguson, founder of the choir, shared her pride in the group’s success: “Once people begin attending, they just don’t want to leave. It has exceeded my expectations, and I am so proud of our members who have worked so hard to prepare for their first concert. We couldn’t have done it without our brilliant choir director, Stuie Ellerton, who has brought out the very best in everyone and truly inspired them.”
The choir welcomes people of all backgrounds and abilities—there are no auditions, sheet music, or membership fees, making it accessible to everyone. Impressively, 40% of its members live with a long-term health condition, yet all contribute to the group’s vibrant, joyful sound.
The choir has also supported people to develop their skills and confidence. So much so that member Quinn Cole, now a rising star in the group, has secured a place at the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance in Leeds, where he will study for a degree in Popular Music Performance (Vocals).
Quinn credits the choir for helping him find his voice: “The Northern Lights Community Choir has been a catalyst for me, helping me gain the confidence I’ve long yearned for. It’s given me the courage to pursue a music career, and I’ll always remember this choir as where my journey began.”
The Northern Lights Community Choir is already looking ahead. With rehearsals for their next performance set to begin soon, they hope to continue shining brightly and bringing joy through their collective voice.
Photo: Revd Caroline Ferguson, Quinn Cole and choir director Stuie Ellerton.