The potential of choral singing to support well-being is increasingly recognized, yet most studies focus on adults or clinical populations. Research examining healthy neurotypical youth choir singers is emerging, but few explore its impact on well-being outcomes. This qualitative study explored how choir participation impacts youth well-being, examining the experiences of Serbian youth choir singers, aged 15 to 24. Focus group interviews were conducted with 26 participants (7 males and 19 females), including members of school and extracurricular choirs, to address motivation for joining, perceived benefits and challenges associated with choir participation, and the role of conductors. Thematic analysis, guided by Self-Determination Theory (SDT) and PERMA well-being frameworks, revealed significant socio-emotional benefits from choir participation. Passion for singing, social connections, and musical skill development were the major motivators for joining. Participants consistently reported benefits, including increased positive emotions, reduced stress, greater confidence, improved social interaction, increased support, personal growth, and the conductor’s encouragement, which were central to their well-being. Challenges like performance anxiety, intergroup dynamics, and rehearsal intensity were observed. The findings highlight the multidimensional benefits of choral singing and its potential to enhance well-being among healthy youth.
Milošević et al. (Mon,) studied this question.