Finding Your Voice in the West End
Looking for Mother and Child Classes in Glasgow? This is something new…
By Jade Hughes
Tucked away in the welcoming halls of Broomhill Church Hall, a small weekly gathering is quietly becoming a lifeline for local women. Singing Mamas Glasgow, led by musician Kirsty Hamilton, holds a space where, as she puts it, ‘All voices are welcome’.
Part of a growing national non-profit movement, Singing Mamas supports women across the UK and beyond to build song-sharing communities that enhance wellbeing, regardless of singing experience. Glasgow’s West End branch embodies the spirit of that mission. ‘It’s not a choir, but a singing circle,’ Kirsty explains. ‘There’s no pressure to perform and no expectation of musical expertise. Instead, the emphasis is on connection, relaxation and finding joy through songs.’
Kirsty is a musician and therapeutic music maker who believes that a calm, encouraging atmosphere is central to the group’s appeal. Her conviction that music can ground and steady women — especially during the intensely overstimulating experience of motherhood — shapes every session she leads. The repertoire reflects this: songs chosen for their soothing qualities, drawn from pop, Scots, folk, and harmony traditions. They’re intentionally simple to learn and teach, with no need for sheet music or concern about ‘getting the words right’. Light repetition builds confidence, and within minutes even hesitant singers find themselves swept up in the collective sound.
An Anchor for Busy Mums
Every Friday afternoon, the group gathers in the pram-accessible Broomhill Church Hall with their babies and toddlers. Toys and books are set out in the centre to keep little ones content while the session unfolds. Once everyone has settled, Kirsty leads a gentle physical warm-up followed by a vocal warm-up to ease the group into singing. Then the music begins.
Each week, Kirsty introduces a new song, creating an easy-going atmosphere where everyone can join in, whatever their experience. When the final notes fade, she brings out tea, cake, and space to chat. For many women — whether navigating the early stages of motherhood, adjusting to life changes or simply craving connection — this unhurried time to talk is as nourishing as the singing itself. Friendships form, stories are shared, and week by week the group becomes a steady anchor in busy lives.
Newcomers are invited to try a free taster session, and after that the first month costs £20. Drop-ins are welcome, and you don’t need to arrive on time — it’s an unhurried, low-pressure environment where nobody minds if you slip in late or only make it for the tea-and-cake part at the end. Babies can snooze or gurgle along to the music, and the circle welcomes all women — you certainly don’t need to be a singer.
Everyone Welcome
The setting in Broomhill adds to the charm. There’s something grounding about gathering in a familiar community setting just minutes from the bustle of the West End, to do something as simple as sing a wee tune. Women describe the sessions as a reset — a moment to breathe deeply, loosen shoulders, and feel part of something gentle but powerful.
For women searching for a calm, uplifting weekly ritual, Kirsty’s Singing Mamas circle offers a warm invitation: come as you are, and let the music carry you away.
Take it from me, a gloriously off-key participant: if I can sing in this circle, anyone can! Your voice will fit right in.
Looking for Mother and Child Classes in Glasgow? Arrange your free taster, contact Kirsty at
quaversscotland@gmail.com or 07725 441922
or find her on Facebook as Glasgow Singing Mamas with Kirsty.
More about her wider work can be found at quaversmusic.co.uk, and sessions can also be booked via Eventbrite.
