Singing Boosts Immunity!

For many of us, singing is a source of joy, connection, and expression. But emerging research shows that it can also do something remarkable for the body’s immune system—and that the effects are measurable and significant.

One of the body’s first lines of defense against respiratory infections is an antibody called secretory immunoglobulin A, or SIgA. SIgA is found in mucosal secretions such as saliva and plays a vital role in protecting the upper respiratory tract from invading viruses and bacteria.

SIgA Levels Rise with Singing

A landmark study of choir singers found that levels of SIgA increase dramatically during singing activities. Saliva samples collected from choir members showed increases of an average of 150% during rehearsals and up to 240% during live performances compared with baseline levels.

These increases suggest an activation of immune function when people engage actively in singing. The boost during performance, higher than during rehearsal, may reflect the combination of deep breathing, emotional engagement, and the social and cognitive stimulation that comes with performing.

Carolyn Eynon Singers getting healthy!

Active Participation Matters

It’s not just being around music that counts. The active act of singing makes the difference. Another study comparing active musical engagement with passive listening found that people who played instruments and sang showed significantly greater increases in SIgA than those who simply listened or did nothing musical.

This highlights the importance of participation. Whether you’re in a community choir, a school ensemble, or just singing with friends, your body responds more robustly when you’re actively making music.

Singing Boosts More Than Just Immunity

These physiological effects are just part of the story. Singing also tends to boost positive emotions and decrease stress, factors that are tightly linked to immune function. In the same research on choir singing, participants reported greater positive mood and reduced negative affect after singing sessions.

Reducing stress and increasing feelings of connection and satisfaction aren’t just good for the soul—they create a context in which the immune system can function more effectively.

Research In Summary

• SIgA, a key immune antibody, rises significantly during singing.

• Active singing boosts SIgA more than passive listening. 

• Singing enhances mood and reduces stress, which supports overall wellbeing.

Whether you’re gearing up for a concert or lifting spirits in a casual sing-along, the science suggests your immune system is listening too.

Sing with CES and boost your immunity today!

REFERENCES:

Sing4Health: protocol of a randomized controlled trial of the effects of a singing group intervention on the well-being, cognitive function and health of older adults

CultureCase: Playing music and singing can help your immune system

ResearchGate: Effects of Choir Singing or Listening on Secretory Immunoglobulin A, Cortisol, and Emotional State