Although Holos Centre is known for its care for mental health using transpersonal psychology methods that allow addressing the cause of problems through experience and focus on treating various mental illnesses without medication, it is also a significant cultural center of the Vlaštovičky community.
At Holos, special emphasis is placed on providing courses, a wide range of cultural and social events, and support for artistic activities. One of the significant adult groups is the Wednesday singing course, known as the Artistic Group "Swallow," also referred to as "UUčko." Led by experienced vocal teacher Milan Hrabánek, this course is designed as a space for developing participants' vocal skills who regularly gather here every Wednesday from 5 PM to 8 PM. The Artistic Group "Swallow" offers an environment for sharing experiences, education, and the development of singing abilities across a broad range of musical genres and styles. Participants practice both choral and solo singing, and in the future, "UUčko" aims to incorporate movement and acting activities as well.
What is the actual importance of singing?
Singing has become a significant tool for maintaining mental well-being and balance in everyday life. This artistic activity isn't just a means of expressing artistic inclinations; it also serves as a method for therapeutic calming and relaxation. When engaging in singing, various areas of the brain are activated, leading to the stimulation of endorphin and dopamine release, hormones associated with feelings of happiness and well-being. They also help reduce stress and anxiety levels, enhance mood, and contribute to overall emotional balance.
One of the crucial aspects of singing is its impact on breathing and relaxation. Singing promotes improved breathing capacity and contributes to body relaxation. Breath control, essential in singing, aids in deeper breathing, subsequently releasing tension in the body. This process positively influences the overall body condition, inducing feelings of comfort and tranquility.
Moreover, singing also significantly influences connecting the body with emotions. While singing, we focus not only on producing sound but also on expressing our emotions, allowing us to articulate and process our own feelings. Singing becomes a means of emotional venting and creating a deep connection between our inner experiences and musical expression. In this way, singing enables us to better understand our emotions and offers us space for their expression.
Report directly from the center of the action
At the Wednesday meeting of the Artistic Group Swallow, also known as "UUčko," an opportunity arises to become part of a wonderfully harmonious and creative evening. Upon entering the "Holos Studio" space, an immediately friendly atmosphere prevails, which warms even the coldest Wednesday evenings with its warm welcome. Participants gather not only for the music but primarily for an atmosphere brimming with enthusiasm and great spirits.
The beginning of the meeting is usually astonishing. Before the song rehearsal starts, all participants engage in breathing exercises, which help release tension and prepare the vocal cords for a convincing performance. This initial exercise also creates collective cohesion and space for all involved to become one body and one voice.
Following the initial relaxing exercises, everyone joins in group singing. Participants enjoy this moment for mutual understanding of their voices and tuning their tones. The excellent and cohesive harmony that arises during this part reinforces the sense of a shared experience and creates room for individual expression for everyone present.
Once the group is ready and tuned, the teaching or practicing of songs that the UUčko members are preparing for upcoming events takes place. At this point, intense and focused rehearsals occur, with each member diligently working on the sound of the entire group. All vocal parts are prepared and refined with a strong emphasis on perfection.
During the UUčko meeting, there is not only a professional approach to singing but also a significant emphasis on comfort, joy, and feelings of shared effort. Enjoying musical performances, exercises, and song rehearsals is full of excitement, underscoring the harmonious atmosphere and mutual well-being among all involved. Each member has the opportunity to voice their own singing while sharing mutual joy in singing.
The atmosphere of the Swallow Artistic Group meeting is enhanced by the expert guidance of experienced voice instructors. Milan Hrabánek, a regular contributor to these Wednesday meetings, ensures that members receive expert guidance and top-notch advice regarding proper vocal training and singing techniques. Additionally, other expert voice instructors join the group, such as Petr Miller and Brigita Cmuntová, bringing new perspectives, diversity, and rich experiences. Their presence introduces new dynamic elements and opportunities to explore different stylistic aspects of singing. Thanks to the experience of these voice instructors, members have the opportunity to gain a richer insight into the world of singing and acquire useful tools to enhance their musical expression.
Being part of the Wednesday meeting of the Swallow Artistic Group was indeed an unforgettable experience, enriching not only musical skills but also reinforcing comfort and joy in sharing music and creativity in a friendly and supportive environment. What makes UUčko exceptional? It's the incredible atmosphere combined with a wonderful group of people who unite their passion for music with the joy of collaborative creation. Petr Miller brings not only amazing humor but also energy and shares entertaining stories from the theater and songs that are not only beautiful but also require thorough practice. Milan tries to keep the disparate group of choir members as a collaborating body, even though, according to members, it sometimes costs him "almost all his nerves." Nonetheless, the result of all the effort creates a joyful and positive atmosphere that UUčko also aims to spread at concerts, cheerfully passing on joy to all listeners.
Conclusion
In conclusion, participating in the Wednesday meetings of the Swallow Artistic Group at Holos and singing itself is not merely a way to improve musical skills, but primarily an opportunity for relaxed gatherings, sharing music, and creative energy in a pleasant and stimulating environment. This excellent atmosphere becomes an inspiration for further musical development and personal growth.
Don't forget to join us at the Holos Friends Christmas Gathering event, which will take place on December 16th at the Holos Center. A full-day program full of fun, Christmas atmosphere, carols, and interesting activities for the whole family will be prepared – and at the same time, enjoy the unique Christmas concert by UUčko. Take the time and come to enjoy an unforgettable day and evening full of the Christmas spirit with us!
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