A CHOIR of 1,200 singers who banded together for a huge performance at Cliffs Pavilion are set to release their hotly-anticipated video to raise £10,000 for Samaritans.
The Buskerteers Choir's "big busk" saw more than a thousand choir singers unite at the Southend theatre to perform a stirring rendition of Carole King's classic You've Got A Friend.
Alongside the video, a single version of the song is also being released on Friday, June 14, with the aim of raising £10,000 for the renowned mental health and suicide prevention charity. The release is timed to coincide with Men’s Health Week 2024.
This year's performance follows the success of the first "big busk" in 2023, which saw 600 people come together to learn and perform Coldplay’s Yellow. This raised £10,000 for the Brain Tumor Trust.
Andrew Small, founder of the Buskerteers Choir, said: “We are incredibly excited to share the big busk 2024 video and single with you all. Our performance of You’ve Got A Friend was a powerful moment of unity and support, reflecting the core message of Samaritans.
“We hope our efforts will not only raise vital funds but also increase awareness of the mental health challenges many face, particularly men, who are often at greater risk of suicide.”
The Buskerteers Choir was founded by Andrew with the goal of raising £1million for charity through choir performances, and marks its fifth anniversary in December.
In the past five years, the choir has expanded significantly, now boasting six choir leaders who manage 27 choirs across Essex, Suffolk, Sussex, and Hampshire.
During this time, the Buskerteers Choir has raised an incredible £154,734.85 for various charitable causes.
Supporters can contribute to the £10,000 fundraising goal for Samaritans by downloading the single and donating at justgiving.com/page/buskerteers-andrew-small-1717592474945.
Every donation will help the charity continue its crucial work, providing emotional support to anyone in distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide.
The single version of You've Got A Friend by the Buskerteers Choir will be available for download on all major platforms from Friday, June 14.
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