LGBT choirs raise money for Orlando shooting victims and their families

'We have responded in the only way we could: through song,' said Simon Sharp, artistic director of the London Gay Men's Choir

Several of the UK's top LGBT choirs came together on Monday as part of an emotional fundraiser for the victims of the Orlando shootings.

The benefit concert #SingForOrlando was organised to support the Floridean families mourning the loss of their loved ones.

The Choirs singing included The Adam Street Singers, the Pink Singers, Diversity Choir, Lewisham & Greenwich NHS Choir and the London Gay Men's Chorus.

The London Gay Men's Chorus (LGMC) also released their version of Simon & Garfunkel's Bridge Over Troubled Water on Wednesday, which they previously sang as part of a memorable performance during London's vigil for Orlando on 13 June.

Proceeds from the sale of the charity single will be split equally between the Orlando Victims Fund, organised by Equality Florida and Galop, a London-based charity that works to reduce LGBT hate crime in London and around the UK.

Speaking about the digital-only release, LGMC Artistic Director Simon Sharp said: "The attack on the Pulse nightclub in Orlando sent shockwaves through the whole LGBT community.

"The LGMC responded in the only way we could: through song. We were truly overwhelmed by the public response to our performance at the Soho Vigil and want to do everything we can to raise money for the victims of the Orlando attack and for victims of LGBT hate crime in the UK. We had recorded Bridge Over Troubled Water for our forthcoming album."

"It's a song that has taken on new meaning for us as a chorus but we hope it sends out a message of love and support to all of our LGBT brothers and sisters and our straight allies across the world," he commented.

Chairman of the LGMC, John D. Carrion added: "The Orlando attack was an act of hatred directed towards the LGBT community and we want to combat this hate with a message of love, hope and solidarity.

"The response to our performance at the vigil has been incredibly overwhelming and humbling for all of our members. We would like to take the opportunity to send our thanks to all those who shared this moment with us, and sent us messages of thanks and love."