Enriching communities across Wiltshire and Somerset
In the Community
We are passionate about engaging and inspiring both young and old including those with particular needs, so special projects in the wider community, including with schools, social charities, and care homes are hugely important to us.
Collaborating with Bluebird Care and the Wiltshire Music Centre on our Afternoon Tea and Opera events
for older isolated adults in the community, is one of the highlights of our year.
Led by the wonderful Lynsey Docherty, soprano and animateur, our afternoon concerts have delighted attendees with uplifting performances and shared experiences, leaving guests feeling enriched and connected. Audiences are treated to afternoon tea and cake, while the If Opera ensemble, past and present, perform a selection of popular operatic arias as well as a selection of beloved show tunes.
These community-centred events show how thoughtfully designed musical interaction can spark joy, reduce loneliness, and strengthen wellbeing among older adults. Group music not only supports mind and mood but fosters social connection - combating the “epidemic” of loneliness.
“Thank you all for the superb afternoon of uplifting and energy renewing music on Tuesday. It was just what I needed to forget all the troubles of the world for a couple of hours!”
“I have taken several phone calls from people that came to the tea party thanking us for a 'splendid' afternoon, they thoroughly enjoyed it!”
Get involved
If you’d like to discuss supporting If Opera’s community outreach please get in touch:
debbieheyden@ifopera.com or 01225 868124