Who and what is Chapel-en-le-Frith Ladies Choir?

 

We are an all female choir of about 40 voices, singing in 3 or 4 sections. We perform a varied programme: songs from the shows, favourites from the pop, jazz and world music repertoires, early music and our talented MD's own arrangements. We perform 4 or 5 concerts a year and we also take part in other events such as carol singing and special celebrations.

Choir members are of varied ages and walks of life. We come from Chapel-en-le-Frith and the surrounding area, Buxton and villages all around. We are a friendly group and if you are new to the area, joining us is a good way of making friends. We have a social secretary who arranges a variety of activities.

You can also join us as a 'Friend'. For more details, see the Support Us page.

 

Musical Director

 


Our Musical Director is Sam Gilliatt. Having grown up in and around Manchester, Sam graduated in 2018 with a first class BA degree in Music from the University of York. As both performer (baritone) and director he has gained a large amount of experience of choral music and has worked with many esteemed choral conductors including Harry Christophers, Robert Hollingworth, Eamonn Dougan, Peter Seymour, Justin Doyle, Jamie Burton and Richard Wilberforce.

He also sang with the University of York Jazz Orchester and has a long list of musical theatre and opera performance credits to his name.

As a member of the 24 (University of York choir, MD Robert Hollingworth) Sam has had the opportunity of singing in collaberation with I Fagiolini in various concerts and on their 2017 album 'Monteverdi: The Other Vespers'. He has performed recitals in the National Centre for Early Music in York, and as a soloist for Bradford Festival Choral Society, Liverpool Bach Collective and Yorkshire Bach Choir and participated in the 2017/18 season of Genesis Sixteen.

In addition to singing, Sam also works regularly as a conductor, running various choirs around Manchester and has recently joined the team of musical directors working with Barnsley Youth Choir. He is also one of the Hallé's pool of conductors for their Corporate Choirs. 

 

Accompanist


Our Accompanist is Jane Simmons. Alongside nearly 40 years of private teaching, Jane taught keyboard, clarinet and piano at Chapel Primary School for ten years.

She then moved on to Chapel High Schoolto teach music to Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 children.

While at the High School, Jane also took part and was heavily involvedin the organisation of concerts and musicals, including Jesus Christ Superstar, Grease and Annie.

Jane joined Chapel Ladies Choir in 2006 and plays at all our rehearsals and concerts.

 

President


Our President is Hilary Batterbee
Hilary has been a lifelong resident in Chapel-en-le-Frith parish and President of the Ladies Choir since 2016. Now retired from her working life as a Chartered Surveyor she has served on Chapel-en-le-Frith Parish Counciland is associated with a number of local charities.
 
Serving as a magistrate for 30 years is still a time consuming occupation. She enjoys gardening and country life and if granted one wish it would be to have a magnificent singing voice! In the meantime pretending whilst listening to the choir has to be sufficient for someone who enjoys music, but cannot sing!