Composer・Media Artist・Choral Director
An interdisciplinary composer and media artist based in Northern Ireland, working across sound, technology, voice and participatory practice.
Singing For Lung Health
A Course for Better Breathing and Wellbeing
Current Course
A new Singing for Lung Health course is starting at
Eden Community Centre on 26 October 2026.
7 weekly sessions from
26 October to 7 December 2026
Venue: Eden Community Centre, Carrickfergus
Group size: Maximum 15 participants
Places are limited and advance registration is recommended.
Singing for Lung Health (SFLH) is a friendly and supportive group singing programme designed to help people living with breathlessness or long-term respiratory conditions, such as COPD and asthma.
Sessions use gentle breathing exercises, vocal warm-ups and accessible songs to explore ways of using the breath and voice more comfortably and efficiently. Singing can encourage deeper, more controlled breathing, while also offering an enjoyable way to build confidence in using your voice.
You do not need any previous singing experience, and there is no expectation to be a “good singer”. The emphasis is on taking part at your own pace in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Alongside the breathing and vocal benefits, SFLH offers an opportunity to meet others, enjoy making music together and support your overall wellbeing. Exercises can be adapted to different abilities, and you are always welcome to sit, rest or join in as much as feels comfortable.
Your Singing Leader
Vanissa Law
Vanissa is a trained Singing for Lung Health leader, with a background in singing, choral directing, music education and community music. Her SFLH training has equipped her with specialist knowledge and practical techniques for leading singing sessions for people living with breathlessness and long-term respiratory conditions.
Her sessions combine gentle breathing exercises, vocal warm-ups and accessible songs in a relaxed and supportive environment. Activities are designed so that participants can take part at their own pace, with no previous singing experience required.
Alongside her SFLH work, Vanissa has over 20 years of experience in music education and currently directs Castle Voices, a non-auditioned community choir in Carrickfergus. Her approach focuses on making singing welcoming and enjoyable for people with different levels of musical experience, confidence and ability.
A Brief History of Singing For Lung Health
Singing for Lung Health (SFLH) developed in the UK through collaboration between singing practitioners, healthcare professionals, researchers and people living with respiratory conditions. Early projects explored how techniques used in singing — including breathing control, posture and vocal exercises — could support people experiencing breathlessness.
Over time, SFLH has grown into an established practice, with specialist training for singing leaders and groups running across the UK. Research has also continued to explore the potential physical, psychological and social benefits of singing for people with respiratory conditions.
Asthma + Lung UK, formerly the British Lung Foundation, has played an important role in supporting and promoting Singing for Lung Health.
Today, SFLH brings together breathing and vocal techniques with the enjoyment and social connection of singing in a group. It is designed to complement, rather than replace, medical care.