That the Parliament congratulates Scottish Opera on winning the worldwide Classical:NEXT Innovation Award for its pioneering health and arts initiative, Breath Cycle; understands that Breath Cycle, established in 2012, provides vital support to people with various respiratory illnesses and conditions, now including long COVID; notes that the programme has benefited nearly 2,500 participants across Scotland and further afield; recognises the reported improvements in participants' mental and physical health, energy levels and confidence; understands that this prestigious international award recognises Breath Cycle as "a ground-breaking project that is shaping the future of classical music worldwide" and celebrates its commitment to progress through "bold, yet thoughtful and effective, experimentation in ideas, planning, and action"; commends Scottish Opera for its leadership in demonstrating what it sees as the significant health and wellbeing benefits of the arts, and considers this achievement as a testament to Scotland's innovative contributions to both cultural excellence and public health.
Supported by:
Clare Adamson, Sharon Dowey, Evelyn Tweed, Tess White