Hilary Brooks – Rock Choir Lichfield
After spending 44 years living, working and retiring in the United States, Hilary returned to England to be closer to her family and begin a new chapter of life.
Before moving back, she already knew about Rock Choir through a friend from nursing school and remembered it as something she might like to try one day.
“When I moved back to the UK I knew I needed to make the effort to meet people.”
Joining her local Rock Choir in Lichfield became one of the ways she set about building a new community around her.
Finding friendship in a new chapter of life
Starting over in a familiar country after decades away can feel daunting, and Hilary knew she would need to make an effort to meet new people.
“I am a bit of a loner but knew I needed to make the effort to meet people and establish a community and support system.”
From the moment she joined, she found a welcoming and supportive atmosphere.
“The choir welcomed me.”
Over time, several members reached out and became valued friends, helping her feel settled and connected.
“The kindness and care shown by my fellow Rockies.”
Rediscovering a lifelong love of singing
Many years before joining Rock Choir, Hilary had sung in a choir but eventually stopped when work commitments made rehearsals difficult.
Joining Rock Choir gave her the opportunity to reconnect with something she had always enjoyed.
“It was wonderful to rediscover the joy of singing.”
That rediscovery has become one of the most meaningful parts of her Rock Choir journey.
From the Edinburgh Fringe to Rock Choir LIVE
Hilary has already enjoyed several memorable experiences since becoming a Rockie.
Among her favourites are performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and attending Rock Choir LIVE at the NEC in Birmingham.
Both events brought together members from across the UK and Ireland, creating unforgettable shared experiences through music and community.
From large-scale events to local performances, Hilary says every experience leaves her feeling uplifted.
Music, friendship and feeling uplifted
For Hilary, Rock Choir has become much more than a weekly rehearsal.
It has provided friendship, community and the chance to reconnect with a lifelong passion.
“Every performance is different but they all leave me uplifted and happy.”
What began as a decision to meet people after returning to England has become an important and joyful part of her life in Lichfield.
