A new youth-led choir is launching in Ipswich – and young people are choosing the soundtrack

A brand new singing group is coming to Ipswich this spring, and it’s putting young people firmly in the spotlight.

Suffolk Soul Singers Youth launches on Thursday 16 April 2026, offering a fresh take on traditional choirs by giving participants real creative control over what they sing. The idea is simple: young people bring the music they love, and the group brings it to life together.

Designed for young people across Suffolk, the choir is open to anyone interested in music, regardless of prior singing experience. There are no auditions, no requirement to read sheet music, and no pressure to have prior experience, just a willingness to get involved and give it a go.

At its heart, the project is youth-led but professionally supported. Participants will help shape the repertoire, while experienced facilitators guide them in developing their voices, musical skills and confidence in a relaxed, inclusive setting.

The initiative is led by Andi Hopgood, founder of the well-established Suffolk Soul Singers community choir. Alongside her background as a professional singer and vocal coach, Andi also brings experience as a child and adolescent psychotherapist—a background that underpins the group’s strong focus on wellbeing as well as creativity.

She explains: “We want this to feel like a space where young people can be themselves, feel supported, and have a real say in the music they create. It’s about taking what they love and turning it into something powerful together.”

The wider team includes additional specialist support, including expertise in speech and language, helping to create an environment where young people feel comfortable expressing themselves and building confidence at their own pace.

Besides developing musical ability, the group aims to offer more: a sense of belonging, opportunities to connect with others, and the wellbeing benefits that come from singing as part of a group.

To mark the launch, young people are invited to attend a free taster session, giving them the chance to meet the team, try things out, and see if it’s for them. Ongoing sessions will then be priced at £5, keeping the experience accessible while maintaining high-quality support.

The first session takes place at St Augustine’s Community Hub in Ipswich on Thursday 16 April 2026.

For more details: https://ipswich.love/event/suffolk-soul-singers-youth/

Who wrote this about Ipswich?

Miranda Acres

Miranda has been a Freelance Marketing and Design Consultant for more years than she cares to remember. Co-founder of the Ancient House project – breathing life back into one of Ipswich’s most iconic, heritage buildings and supporting small businesses. A passionate member of Ipswich.love. Born, bred and choosing Ipswich.