BELGRADE, Serbia (AP) – An amateur pop choir known as Pop Hor has unexpectedly flourished across Serbia despite the relatively rare occurrence of community choirs in the country. Founded four years ago in Gornji Milanovac, a small town in central Serbia, the choir operates under the motto "Anyone can sing," encouraging participation from individuals aged five to 105.
The innovative no-stress approach to singing has attracted a multitude of individuals, primarily women, who find joy and stress relief in this communal activity. Currently, Pop Hor has expanded to 10 towns throughout the Balkan nation and continues to aim for further growth, appealing to those who wish to participate without the pressure of auditions or prior musical knowledge.
Nenad Azanjac, a trained music teacher and the founder of Pop Hor along with his wife, noted that many participants enter the choir feeling completely inexperienced. Azanjac stated, "People come as total amateurs, most of them say they have no clue about singing." This inclusive environment has significantly resonated with the community, offering an escape from the ongoing political tensions and socio-economic challenges prevalent in Serbia.
One choir member, 72-year-old Nevenka Bila, highlighted the choir's role as a positive outlet amid the political strife and pro-democracy protests in the troubled Balkan country. She expressed her gratitude, saying, "In this madness that we are living, I found something that feels so good for me. I discovered a new world." Similarly, 62-year-old economist Radmila Kozarac shared that being part of the choir has profoundly impacted her life, helping her to form friendships and enhancing her overall well-being through joyous singing sessions.
The choir regularly engages in performances at various festivals and events, both within Serbia and abroad. Its repertoire primarily includes popular songs sung in Serbian, but also features selections from Croatian and Bosnian artists. Many participants view their time with the choir as an essential escape from daily stress, with psychologists affirming the neurobiological and psychological benefits of group singing. Professor Aleksandra Djuric from Singidunum University explained that singing together can help reduce cortisol levels and elevate mood-enhancing hormones, fostering an environment of unity and happiness.
Azanjac noted a growing trend of participants joining after being encouraged by therapists to engage in singing as a form of anti-stress treatment. He emphasized the importance of social connections within the choir, stating, "Singing comes second, socializing comes first." This communal spirit has allowed over 2,000 people to experience the joy of singing with Pop Hor since its inception in 2022.
As he looks toward the future, Azanjac is determined to spread the choir’s message further, explaining, "The plan is to have the whole region sing." Pop Hor not only strengthens bonds among its participants but also serves as a bright spot in a country navigating the lingering effects of past conflicts and contemporary challenges, creating a space for healing and joy through music.
