Page 137 - Glasbenopedagoški zbornik Akademije za glasbo, letnik 20, zvezek 40 ◆ The Journal of Music Education of the Academy of Music in Ljubljana, volume 20, issue 40

the least benefit from rehearsals, while both the choir and theatre group bene-
fitted the most. While there was not a significant positive change in emotions
reported by the choir group, the theatre group had a more positive impact on
mood, attributed to the physical activity involved. The study found a signifi-
cant reduction in stress during rehearsals for the choir group, indicating the ef-
fectiveness of choir singing in stress reduction. Choir members reported de-
creased stress both before and during rehearsals. State of anxiety decreased in
choir singers, but increased in the concert listening group. The likability of the
rehearsed piece had a significant impact on increased wellbeing during rehears-
als. In summary, choral singing, brass band participation and theatre group
involvement were perceived as positive activities, with choir participants fre-
quently reporting feeling better after rehearsals, which supports previous find-
ings on the positive effects of choral singing on wellbeing.

DISCUSSION

Summary of Evidence Jovana Milošević ◆ CHORAL SINGING AS A MEANS OF INCREASING WELLBEING IN YOUTH AND ADULTS: PRISMA REVIEW

This systematic review aimed to explore the various effects of choral singing on
the psychological, social, emotional, cognitive and physical wellbeing of ado-
lescents and adults. The synthesis of 12 studies, encompassing a diverse range of
methodologies and participant demographics, provides valuable insights into
the various dimensions of wellbeing associated with choir participation.
In all studies, psychological wellbeing was a dominant focus, encompassing
enhanced quality of life, life satisfaction, a sense of purpose, accomplishment,
personality and motivation. Cognitive wellbeing was explored in seven stud-
ies (58.3%), emphasizing increased focus, improved musical skills and a great-
er sense of competence. Social wellbeing took centre stage in eleven studies
(91%), addressing a sense of belonging, social inclusion, identity, positive rela-
tionships and elements from Self-Determination Theory (relatedness, autono-
my and competence). Physical/physiological wellbeing was explored in five stud-
ies (41.6%), including controlled breathing, improved posture, vocal health
and benefits for the immune system. Emotional wellbeing was a key area in ten
studies (83.3%), reflecting improved mood, reduced stress, feelings of calmness
and relaxation.
The instruments used in the 12 reviewed studies to assess wellbeing and
collect data varied. While three studies did not explicitly provide informa-
tion on the instruments used, the remaining nine studies employed a diverse
range of measures: the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), Satis-
faction with Life Scale (SWLS), World Health Organization Quality of Life
Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF), Hedonic Wellbeing (ExWB), Multidi-
mensional Mood Questionnaire (MDMQ), Singers’ Emotional Experienc-

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