So, 2017 rolled around and my youngest was about to start school full-time. I found myself thinking, "Okay, what's next for me?" I knew I wanted to dive back into my first love—music—but it had to be on a mom's schedule.

 

I've been a singer my entire life, tackling everything from backup vocals and studio work for TV and film to leading church services and organising session singers for clients. I had all this experience and a real drive to share it with my community.

 

But the thing that felt truly unique was my experience of rehearsing and performing with my children. My first-born came to every single rehearsal with me. At six months old, he was strapped to my chest while a live band played right behind us as I belted out gospel songs. As he got older, he’d stand on a chair next to me while I sang. I even remember leading worship at church with my third baby strapped to my chest, holding the hand of toddler number two!

 

It made me realise there must be other mothers out there who love music but can't find a space that lets them bring their children—somewhere that wasn't a baby group, but a real performance choir that made space for mums to be mums.

 

I'll be honest, I'm excellent at procrastinating, but I finally got my act together. I posted in a local Facebook group, and that spring, I welcomed a small group of women and their children into my home. It was the best decision I ever made!

 

We made it through COVID, through great achievements and great losses. Along the way, we found a community that was supportive and caring. That wasn't in my original plans, but that’s what MumSing has truly become.

 

Now, MumSing is a registered Community Interest Company, and we're running two sessions every Monday! I even had to start an evening session because the mums returning to work still wanted to be part of it.

 

I'm still in disbelief that MumSing is going stronger than ever after six years. We've had some incredible opportunities, like singing at the March of the Mummies in Parliament Square. There we were, on top of a pink bus in front of Parliament, singing to over 7000 people!

 

I'm so looking forward to more adventures with MumSing. I can't wait to see what we get up to next!

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 Sophie x