World’s Oldest Choir celebrates record-breaking anniversary with festive m4dRADIO Christmas playlist

The Prime Timers Choir, who captured hearts and headlines this time last year when they secured the Guinness World Record for the World’s Oldest Choir, is marking its remarkable milestone with a specially curated festive celebration. The 22-strong choir, which maintains an inspiring average age of 92, will broadcast a bespoke Christmas playlist across Music for Dementia’s m4dRADIO station on 18 December at 10am.

image005.jpgThe anniversary comes at a moment of profound reflection for the Runwood Homes care home residents and staff. Having grown from the original 17 record-breakers to 22 members, the choir continues to expand its mission of bringing joy and community spirit to care homes across Studley, Warwickshire. Monthly online rehearsals and individual weekly singing sessions are now embedded within each of the seven participating care homes.

The impact of sustained musical engagement has been transformative. Residents report increased happiness and a stronger sense of community, even with those who previously shied away from activities now eagerly participating, even if it’s only to watch and feel part of something special. Care home staff have observed a marked shift in resident wellbeing, as singing has become woven into the fabric of weekly care home life.

The original record-breaking achievement on 19 December 2024 captivated British media and generated significant positive attention well beyond the UK. Social workers reached out after seeing the televised concert, members of the public approached residents on local outings to express their admiration and a care home in Amsterdam was so moved, it established its own choir.

Yet perhaps the most poignant testament to what the record means comes from the families of choir members themselves. When one beloved choir member, Gerald from Lower Meadow, sadly passed away this year, his family chose to lay him to rest alongside his Prime Timers choir t-shirt – a decision that moved the entire funeral congregation to tears and underscored the profound meaning that this achievement holds.

image007.jpgThe Prime Timers’ 20-track Christmas playlist, launching on m4dRADIO on 18 December at 10am, reflects the choir’s cherished festive traditions. Featuring beloved classics from Silent Night and White Christmas to modern favourites like Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas Is You, the selection opens with the choir’s own composition, Christmas Through The Years, which was the song they performed during their record-breaking concert in Stratford-Upon Avon a year ago, alongside music legend Tony Christie.

One year on from the historic achievement, the reality of what The Prime Timers has accomplished remains extraordinary. Most residents still speak warmly of the record-breaking concert, with photographs displayed throughout Lower Meadow serving as precious memory reflections.

Choir leader and manager at Four Acres care home in Studley, Jasmine Kessey said: “It is crazy to think that one year ago we achieved the unachievable. It’s still an amazing feeling and something I will hold close for my entire life. A year on, we’re still reaping the benefits, and our residents are happier for it.

“The Prime Timers Choir was delighted to create a Christmas playlist for m4dRADIO. It created some hot debate amongst residents to select the final songs, but everyone agreed our own song, Christmas Through the Years, deserves more radio airplay, so we will definitely be tuning in!”

image009.jpgThis Christmas, Runwood Homes residents are embracing the festive spirit without the pressure of record-breaking preparations. Instead, they’re welcoming local school choirs and primary schools into the homes, enjoying Christmas dinners with local children and celebrating with parties, dancing, and all the joy of the season.

Amy Shackleton, Programme Lead at Music for Dementia, adds: “The Prime Timers illustrates the profound impact of music in care settings. One year on from their record-breaking success, they’re still proving that you’re never too old to join a choir, to make memories and to experience the deep joy that singing together brings.”