danceSing
danceSing was founded in 2016 with a vision to enrich lives through the transformative power of music and movement. At the heart of danceSing beats the fusion of arts and fitness, creating a vibrant community that celebrates self-expression, joy, and connection. In 2021, danceSing made a dynamic entry into the care sector, swiftly expanding in both size and reputation after tailoring its resources for older adults in care settings. Our mission goes beyond the ordinary. Our vision, combined with the team’s unwavering commitment, is enabling us to cultivate wellness far and wide. In partnership with The University of Stirling and supported by the Scottish Government, our evidence-based resources, underpinned by our acclaimed training program and exceptional wrap-around support, have firmly positioned us as a leading destination for digital wellbeing resources.
Team
Meet our exceptional team, delivering an exclusive well-being experience. Including Fitness Leaders, Professional Ballet Dancers, Music Leaders, Composers, a Musical Director, and Yoga and Mind & Body experts. Including experienced Radio Producers and DJs. Together, we provide meaningful music and movement activities designed to enhance your mental and physical health and happiness.
Impact
danceSing's collaborations with Stirling University, Glasgow University, and Plymouth Uni ensure that our resources are grounded in evidence-based content and delivery methods, resulting in life-transforming outcomes. We are enriching the lives of older adults and delivering sustainable positive results across the UK in just 12 weeks! Furthermore, care home staff have experienced benefits from integrating music and movement into their routines, including enhanced mood, physical health, and job satisfaction. University of Stirling Lead Researcher: Prof Anna C. Whittaker Co-Investigators: Dr Jenni Connelly, Dr Gemma Ryde (U Glasgow) PhD Researchers: Esther Oyebola (Ofosu) and Len de Nys
News
In partnership with Stirling University, a global leader in studies on dementia and aging, danceSing is proud to stand alongside the university, contributing to pioneering advancements to help people age well. Our collaborative efforts are dedicated to harnessing the power of music and movement to enhance quality of life, with our digital resources leading the way in meaningful well-being care practices. Continuing studies conducted alongside academic experts have proven notable improvements in mental health, physical fitness, and overall well-being of the communities we serve. These findings not only validate our approach but also inform the ongoing evolution of our programmes, ensuring they are always rooted in sound evidence and best practice.
NEWS ARTICLES
- https://www.stir.ac.uk/news/2024/april-2024-news/health-tech-trialled-by-older-people-in-stirlingshire/
- https://www.renaissance-care.co.uk/blog/dancesing-transforming-wellbeing-care-sector-tech-powered-human-led-initiatives-see-falls-reduce-34
- https://www.stir.ac.uk/news/2022/october-2022-news/research-shows-music-and-movement-hits-right-note-with-care-home-residents/
Study 1: Feasibility
- https://1000elders.stir.ac.uk/2022/09/30/dancesing-care-evaluation-summary-of-the-feasibility-study%ef%bf%bc/
- https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-023-03794-5
Study 2: Pilot study
- https://1000elders.stir.ac.uk/2023/11/01/piloting-digital-interventions-for-older-adults-wellbeing-in-care-homes-dancesing-care/
- https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-3658587/v1
GOALD project: with danceSing Care involved as an SME product subject to co-production workshops
- https://1000elders.stir.ac.uk/2024/01/18/goald-findings/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NRBDgvorWN0&t=1s
danceSing Care with The Scottish Government:
- https://www.gov.scot/publications/health-care-home-healthcare-framework-adults-living-care-homes-annual-progress-report-september-2023/pages/4/
- https://www.stir.ac.uk/news/2024/april-2024-news/health-tech-trialled-by-older-people-in-stirlingshire/
- https://www.renaissance-care.co.uk/blog/dancesing-transforming-wellbeing-care-sector-tech-powered-human-led-initiatives-see-falls-reduce-34
- https://www.stir.ac.uk/news/2022/october-2022-news/research-shows-music-and-movement-hits-right-note-with-care-home-residents/
Reviews
Just a great way to have some fun!
1 year ago
The enthusiasm and professionalism of the DanceSing team make the whole DanceSing experience just so much fun. I hadn’t sung since school (a long time ago!) and have really enjoyed getting back into it.
I really love the classes and schedule my day around them!
2 year ago
They are so invigorating and uplifting during these groundhog days.
Excellent experience!
2 year ago
danceSing keeps me sane and I love all you lovely ladies who give up their time to teach us to keep fit and sing together until we can meet and hug again.
The classes are so motivating and have given a real focus during these hard times.
2 year ago
You and your team have been brilliant throughout. You manage to create a definite community feel. I have that, although I have never met anyone in the group. It's weird and I don't really know how you achieve that, but you certainly do!
Just how good is dancesing????
2 year ago
Thank you Natalie Garry for pushing and pummelling, the squeezing and the ever present “more...!” ... I loved that class and all of the extras you did during December. You are an inspiration and a steel toe-cap boot up my rear when i need it (frequently😇) .... and it is starting to pay off.... I am stronger, have more energy and I have much more tenacity and resilience! Again, thank you! Xxx
Love, love, love
2 year ago
Am so glad I signed up for DanceSing. Lindsay and Natalie are fabulous and are so encouraging, they were both born to lift the spirits! Lindsay's singing sessions are so like a gathering of friends for a social evening of singing and blethering, which is what we all desperately need this year. Thanks all for bringing a breath of fresh air to my living room! 10/5 Stars all the way xx
danceSing has had a huge positive effect on my life!
2 year ago
danceSing has had a huge positive effect on my life. I have discovered the joy of singing, never did I ever think I’d be in a choir. The dancing and Pilates are not only keeping me fitter but mentally the whole package is so uplifting and this is all down to Natalie and Lindsay who accepted me unconditionally. Since lockdown I don’t know how I would have coped without the live classes, chatting online with my new found friends and the enthusiasm and encouragement given by Natalie and her wonderful team is immeasurable. It is so good to have structure in these difficult times. Can never thank you all enough.
When you're down and troubled' this is the place to come to!
2 year ago
When you're down and troubled' this is the place to come to. 'Away for your fix' I heard tonight - what do you mean? On a Monday you come back down stairs with a giggle, a smile and singing a tune, on a Tuesday you come down the stairs with a 'ouch - oh!! ahhh !!! that was good!!! danceSing has kept me smiling, laughing and stretched throughout these past three years I've been a member, I've met the and made the most amazing friends and oh! what a giggle and laugh we all have, all thanks to this wonderful team. These past six months they have kept us motivated and connected with each other, thank you so much.
Thank you for your inspiration to be resilient and motivated!
2 year ago
Totally professional entrepreneurs who picked up the reins and have led us through the most difficult of times. Thank you for your inspiration to be resilient and motivated. So glad I remained connected via danceSing on Demand.
danceSing has an amazing feel good factor!
2 year ago
danceSing has an amazing feel good factor. I can get up feeling tired and a little fed up, a daily dose of danceSing is definitely the best medicine, class finishes and I feel geared up and ready to tackle the day ahead. The leaders are incredible, motivating and inspirational. For me though the fact they are honest and down to earth makes all the difference and when doing a live class you really feel as if they are right there in the room.
Thank you for the work you’ve done to bring dance and Pilates into my home.
2 year ago
2 year ago
I’m very fortunate to enjoy pretty robust mental health, but there’s no doubt that danceSing has contributed to maintaining that state, while this pandemic rage. I love both the structure and the flexibility. The weekly live classes give me a framework, but if something keeps from ‘attending’ I love knowing that I can catch up. The wealth of additional resources in the library is fabulous - plenty of variety to do something different every day for a few weeks! Or, for people like me (whose forte is definitely not dance) the chance to do the same routines over and over again until I’ve mastered them. The freedom to ‘dance like nobody’s watching’ is a joy....and when I get it wrong I just make it up! I’ve no doubt attending classes would help me to improve my technique - especially in Pilates, where I feel it probably matters more but - I find your instructions and guidance very clear and easy to follow; you often seem to know where I might be getting it ‘wrong’ e.g. the focus may be on thighs/hips and you throw in ‘drop your shoulders’; I’ve experienced no pain or discomfort throughout (apart from the normal feeling of muscles that have been worked), which I find reassuring! In short, thank you for the work you’ve done to bring dance and Pilates (known in our house as pirates!) into my home. I hope you’re now planning this as a permanent addition to danceSing.
danceSing takes me out of myself!
2 year ago
No matter my mood beforehand, I always feel more positive afterwards because I get such a buzz from the exertion of singing or exercising, from the contact with the instructors and my DS pals and from the music. And I can feel my singing, fitness and flexibility improving so I get a real confidence boost from my achievement.
Love the leaders!
2 year ago
danceSing provides structure, stations throughout the week which give me a sense of purpose and creativity and connection. Plus I love the leaders.
No matter how down I am feeling a danceSing session always makes me feel better
2 year ago
It lightens up the dark corners in my mind and helps me feel brighter and calmer. I get a buzz from dancing and singing with everyone online even though we are on our own. danceSing has helped my physical and mental wellbeing all the way through lockdown. I always seem to be smiling when I finish a session. Thank you.
Participating in the activities on offer from danceSing lifts my mood!
2 year ago
Participating in the activities on offer from danceSing lifts my mood and sets me up for achieving much more from the rest of my day. Our leaders are so motivational and set an example for us all. Love it and them!
danceSing online has been a lifeline for me during lockdown
2 year ago
The lessons are great fun, uplifting and such a tonic when the news can get us down. It takes my mind away to a happy place . Thanks!
Specifically relating to this time of pandemic
2 year ago
Important part of danceSing sessions for me and my sense of well-being is being able to connect live to the exercise and singing sessions. Sharing this time with the leaders and other members makes me feel better on those days when I feel isolated.
I discovered danceSing while I was shielding and feeling quite low at times
2 year ago
It combines 2 things that, for me, greatly improve my mood - singing and exercise. Having the online content to go to anytime I need it to lift my mood is great, as well as the feeling of being part of a group, all be it very distanced, during the live sessions, which helps with the lack of social interaction. As my mood can dip sometimes during 'normal' autumn/winter months, it will be great to have danceSing to turn to this year.
Inspiring, and happy chat from Natalie and Lindsay too!
2 year ago
Last spring, feeling totally isolated, one day blending into another with little incentive to motivate. Don’t know how, but thankfully found danceSing online. This gave me a timetable to work with, a structure to my week, and lifted my spirits and motivation. Inspiring, and happy chat from Natalie and Lindsay too!
Thank you to you both and your team for making it all possible
2 year ago
Where do I begin? Natalie and Lindsay provide us with two of the most uplifting activities to improve our mental health dancing and singing. But that is just the start! They are also the most caring, engaging, empathetic, enthusiastic and encouraging people. Their live classes are sheer joy as they make you feel as if you are in the room with them. I can’t imagine how I would have coped without them during the past six months and am comforted knowing whatever else they will be there for the next six months. Thank you to you both and your team for making it all possible.
Really lifted my spirits in the early months of lockdown!
2 year ago
Really lifted my spirits in the early months of lockdown...fun and focus when I really needed it. Knowing other friends were also joining in was really comforting too. Love it. Thank you!
I cannot thank them enough!
2 year ago
Natalie and Lindsay are regular virtual visitors to my living room. They bring mental , physical and social engagement, which keeps me challenged and assists with my wellbeing. I cannot thank them enough.
Really lifts your mood
2 year ago
2 year ago
2 years ago
danceSing really has the full package and expertly led it really brightens up my life to see such talented lovely people, they encourage everyone to take part and it really lifts your mood.
danceSing as a group has a positive impact on my mental health!
2 year ago
With regular rehearsals/training either live or on demand I am provided with social contact & structure which in turn plays a large part in improving my mood & wellbeing ! The group singing & dance exercise increases strong social bonding with likeminded people I find it a form of release acting as an outlet for my emotions It has therefore become a much needed therapy! Music & dance has incredible healing powers!!!
What would we have done without danceSing over the past six months!
2 year ago
The wonderful team quickly got classes up and running on Facebook and we welcomed Lindsay and Natalie into our homes to dance, sing and stretch several times a week. It was something to look forward to and it was easy to feel part of the big ‘family’. There has been so much laughter and support from everyone taking part. We have been very lucky too to be entertained by other very talented danceSing instructors performing live from their homes. A highlight was the Big Sing at Loch Leven Larder where some of us got to meet up and sing, albeit socially distanced in our cars. I can’t recommend this group highly enough!
danceSing has had a huge positive effect on my life!
2 year ago
I have discovered the joy of singing, never did I ever think I’d be in a choir. The dancing and Pilates are not only keeping me fitter but mentally the whole package is so uplifting and this is all down to Natalie and Lindsay who accepted me unconditionally. Since lockdown I don’t know how I would have coped without the live classes, chatting online with my new found friends and the enthusiasm and encouragement given by Natalie and her wonderful team is immeasurable. It is so good to have structure in these difficult times. Can never thank you all enough.
I wish I’d done it sooner!
2 year ago
It took me ages to join DanceSing, telling myself it ‘wasn’t for me’. I wish I’d done it sooner. I used to do a lot of singing and dancing in my youth and doing the classes gave me that feeling of joy and sense of Self I forgot I had. It was quite emotional. I didn’t realise how important DanceSing was until lockdown happened where it became the only social event in my diary, a positive force to catch my negative thoughts and a community of people to join, in an isolated world. Natalie, Lindsay and the team are the utmost professionals in their craft but they have gone way beyond that role in the last 6 months. To sum up , I have really felt cared for by DanceSing. Who’d have thought being physically apart would have made us feel closer together?
Weight-loss, Friendship, Amazing Teachers
2 year ago
After returning home from University in April and braving the scales I was disappointed to discover I had gained weight and my level of fitness had dropped significantly. I suffer from hypermobility which can mean pain, soft tissue injuries and occasionally joint dislocation and have found it difficult to find the right fitness programme. After giving several disappointing online alternatives a try, the danceSing on Demand Fitness programme has been the transformational programme (both physically and mentally) I have been searching for. Sessions have helped me to strengthen and stabilise my joints, improve my posture, get my weight under control and boost my confidence. And best of all, I can continue seamlessly having recently returned to University. I LOVE danceSing Fitness!
Sing and Dance your little heart out
2 year ago
Before joining danceSing I was told I'd never sing again after a thyroid operation, three years later I've sung and danced my heart out with this fantastic bunch of people. I can't remember having laughed so much in their company, I'd achieved things I never thought possible, from singing at a Summer Festival, to taking part with Scottish Pop Orchestra. The leaders are amazing, enthusiasm in buckets, but never are you asked to do anything you don't feel comfortable to do be that with the singing or the fitness side. Everyone in the group has different abilities but what we all do have is the need for a good laugh, a good stretch and a lot of chatting, coffee and cakes, we even manage that remotely!!
Widened my horizons
2 year ago
My life had changed since joining nearly 2 years ago, my confidence had grown and I’ve taken part in things I would never have thought possible and loved every minute. I’m so much fitter and my memory has also improved. I love the enthusiasm which Natalie and her very professional team bring to all the classes, it’s infectious and it’s fun. During the lockdown all the leaders have gone an extra mile to make sure that physically and emotionally we were all looked after and it certainly gave me stability when all around was changing. Being part of this amazing group of people has given me purpose, fun, friendship and so much more. DanceSing is a happy place to be.
Lockdown saviour
2 year ago
Previously a member attending classes I signed up for Monthly on demand classes. These are delivered with such professionalism but also fun and very interactive. I don’t know how I would have got through this without the bond with our DS friends and leaders. Having DS on demand allowed me to have some structure to my week and something to look forward to. Our leaders are so talented and regularly entertain us with ‘free concerts’ that are included in our monthly subscription. Looking forward one day to return to live classes but the DS team have done an excellent job of keeping the show on the road with this option. Thank you 💙
Thanks a million!
3 year ago
You have provided a framework which has successfully supported me through this period of life. The last 14 weeks seem to have flown past in no small part helped by my danceSing connections. Living on my own, my daily diary is set around our timetable. Something live on most days - (even top class weekend performances) sometimes twice a day and in between there is a ‘sweetie jar’ of video choice to dip into depending on my mood of the moment. Of course there is online chat and friendship too. Thanks a million. X
Such an inspiration, feeling better already!
3 year ago
Just wanted to let you know with work being a bit quieter I'm delving into the resources and starting at the beginning with exercise every day for half an hour, it's really been great. I should have made time before but work's been quite stressful. My weight has gone up with working near the fridge and too many drinks but getting back on track with your help. Thank you as always, you are such an inspiration and I'm feeling better already. Miss you Mandy xxx
Love love love this!
3 year ago
Excellent group singing, singing technique classes online. Excellent fitness programmes including those that support singing/breathing. Lyndsay Ashworth-Fraser and Natalie Garry are super-talented, patient, approachable friendly and inspiring tutors. Feels like family and being part of a community. Love it.
Getting my fitness back
3 year ago
I’ve been a DanceSinger for a few years, going to Pilates and DanceSing every week. When the classes stopped because of lockdown, I was so happy that our leaders so quickly adapted to giving us online classes and I started doing one of the fitness classes every day, as well as the music classes. My fitness was really improving, week by week. Then, I developed a painful knee which put a stop to my fitness routine. Having taken it easy for several weeks, I am now returning and easing myself back gently. This introductory series is not too hard on my knee but still gives me a reasonable workout. It may be a while before I’m where I was, but this is a great way to start, whether you’re new or recovering from illness or injury. Thanks to Natalie for providing classes to suit everyone!