Chaps Choir

Matt Veal

An exploration of men today, observing the collective identity of the group and the individual, through singing.

This project looks to explore the relationships between men in a non-competitive environment. Performance is core to the choir’s activities, however the focus of this study, is the broader sense of togetherness. I show how men react to each other, the camaraderie, relationships and how they feel about being in Chaps Choir.

Above all else I wanted to capture and share how the love of singing together brings men a sense of belonging. What I found went far deeper than just friendships and togetherness; there was a true sense of community. I became an observer of a group of varied and wonderfully diverse men who have singing in common.

I realised that I was not only documenting a choir but studying the therapeutic effects of the group on the individual and the kinship that evolved from being united.

Matt Veal Chaps Choir Calm Photography Movement