I have been singing for most of my life and without it life would be very dull! 

Brought up in Buxton, Derbyshire, I was classically trained from the age of

8 but I couldn’t wait to sing in a band which I first did at the age of 15. 

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I spent my early twenties singing in an original materials' band through which I

organised and directed music workshops in schools.  At the same time I worked

at an educational centre as part of a team, running life skills courses for young people which promoted team work, organisational skills and creativity. These experiences led me run my own business for a few years designing and leading outdoor, team building courses with a creative twist!  Musical theatre was a passion of mine during my twenties and I took on a number of lead roles, performing at the Pomegranate Theatre in Chesterfield. I was also singing professionally with a corporate dance band during this period.

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Later in my twenties, I embarked on my next adventure which was to move to Cheltenham, where I gained a BEd Hons. Whilst at university and over the next 15 years or so, I sang semi-professionally with a Latin American band, was lead singer with a jazz funk band, and sang on the local jazz circuit as well as singing with another function band.

 

For twenty six years I was a primary school teacher, with a focus on wellbeing and mental health. I discovered a new found musical doorway, arranging for and leading adult choirs from 2012.  This  journey began with a school staff choir and led to the creation of the first of The Cheltenham Singing Groups, The Wednesdays, in 2014. I have evolved away (as Serena Williams would say!) from school teaching now and towards more singing.

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I cannot believe the joy that I have experienced singing with, and leading others. I feel privileged to meet so many wonderful people and frequently observe little acts of kindness between our members.

 

My singing and personal adventure is not over yet!

 

'Louise leads the groups with humour, inspiration and patience in a relaxed atmosphere and is a firm believer in the healing qualities and sheer happiness that singing together brings. She is well organised and teaches main parts and harmonies in a way that is easily accessible to everyone.'  

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