Independent Arts, the Island-wide arts for wellbeing charity are delighted to announce Cowes based Singer and Composer Mike Christie has agreed to be an ambassador.
Mike, who also organises Wight Proms and performs as part of the vocal group G4, is an enthusiastic advocate of singing and can’t imagine not singing professionally, which he has done since the age of eight-years-old.
Help to raise the profile of Independent Arts
The role of ambassador is to help to raise the profile of Independent Arts and is based on an agreement which lasts initially for two years.
Since 2018 however, Independent Arts has been a charity partner to Wight Proms, attending with staff and volunteers to assist with the audience welcome across the various evenings.
Duet at SingAbout session
Mike recently visited the Creative Hub in Newport to observe the charity’s weekly SingAbout session. Participants were pleased to have a visitor join the session and especially delighted when alongside fellow professional singer Thomas Cameron, they performed a duet from Les Miserables.
Since then, Mike has written his Jubilee inspired tribute to Her Majesty, Heartbeat of Our Nation, with proceeds throughout June being donated to Independent Arts.
Gagliani: Singing, in the company of others makes a huge difference to how you feel
Of the appointment, chief executive Lisa Gagliani MBE says,
“We are incredibly grateful to have Mike on board in an official capacity which also recognises how aligned he is to our mission. Singing is just one of the artforms that Independent Arts uses to help build communities across the Isle of Wight.
“Regulars to our SingAbout sessions will testify that singing, in the company of others, does make a huge difference to how you feel especially if you live alone, it makes you feel happier and even, more alive.”
Christie: Music connects with people in ways that nothing else can
Mike Christie said,
“I am very honoured to become an Ambassador for Independent Arts. When I founded the Wight Proms festival in 2018, I asked them to become our associated charity, as there is a natural synergy between us. Independent Arts is an absolute lifeline to so many who are isolated and makes a vital difference to their lives.
“As a singer who has also taught singing, coached and run workshops over many years, I have witnessed first-hand how music connects with people in ways that nothing else can. The confidence it gives participants and the transformation it makes to their lives.
“I believe the arts are the greatest healer and an unrivalled way to communicate; breaking down language barriers, uniting people and saving them from loneliness. I am very proud to be an ambassador Independent Arts and look forward to continuing our relationship together.”
News shared by Ralph on behalf of Independent Arts. Ed
