Our members are the heart and soul of our choir. Their passion, dedication, and love for music make everything we do possible. Without them, we wouldn’t be the vibrant, welcoming community we are today. Each voice adds something special, and together, we create something truly meaningful.
Here are a few of our members to share a little about themselves!
I'm Gwen and I joined Five Valleys Voices after Covid, it's the best thing I have ever done! At last I could sing with a wonderful group of people. I quickly established an annual Ladies Weekend away which has become a huge success and the highlight of my year and I am an active non elected member of the committee. I'm a retired swim instructor from Dursley Pool, and taught children and now grandchildren of members of our choir. I'm proud to be part of this choir family!
Jamie - Five Valleys Voices is a wonderfully welcoming choir. Being a member is and absolute joy - everyone is so friendly, and there's a real sense of togetherness in every session. Whether you're an experienced singer or just love to belt out a tune, the supportive and uplifting atmosphere makes it a pleasure to be part of. Lottie, our choir leader, brings such enthusiasm and skill, making each rehearsal both inspiring and fun. It is the highlight of my week!
Josh - I was born in Bristol and have quite a long history of singing in both choir and musical theatre - both amateur theatre and degree level performance. Joining the choir has reignited my passion in music, as well as the joy of discovering a more diverse repertoire.
Hello, My name is Laura and I have been singing with 5VV for more than 10 years. It has enriched my life beyond expectation. I've really enjoyed the music study and the physical benefits of singing. It can sound amazing when a piece we've all been working together on goes well. That said, I've never felt so well supported than when I've messed up in a final rehearsal. Whatever happens, it will be alright on the night ;-).
Lin, Soprano 2 and non elected committee member - I joined the choir some 11 years ago after being invited by a friend. I'm not a youngster, but the joy of singing in a group is wonderful. We all have problems to overcome and i have found the choir to be my panacea during difficult times. It can be challenging but is so rewarding. It gives me a space to just be me!!
I'm Helen and I am one of the longest serving choir members having joined in 2013. I sing Soprano 2 and am also actively involved as a non elected member of the committee. I may not be the loudest of singers, but I thoroughly enjoy singing.
James, Baritone - The thing about singing with FVV and with Lottie is the faith and ambition invested in the voices of 40 or 50 ordinary people. Some of us are 'musical' and read music. I can't, and it doesn't seem to matter! The ambition means that the concerts are always good. Some of the numbers we do are easy: they almost 'sing themselves' . However, some of the songs are challenging. Often there is a point when the difficulty bites and there can grow a sense of un - hopefulness. And then, all of a sudden: Bingo! We make it happen and music bursts out from behind grey clouds and everyone turns into angels and harmony makes us weepy with joy and we are singers, singing. And you know what? Ask any of us which songs we like most after the concert - I'll give you a hint - it isn't the easy ones!!!!
Ros, Soprano 2, non elected committee member - I have been singing with Five Valleys Voices since 2014. It's such fun, musically challenging, and very good for your spirits and health. I am a retired GP with an interest in preventing Dementia. I am very conscious of how sharing music and singing together is very stimulating and rewarding on all levels. Lottie couldn't be more encouraging. She likes us to develop musically and pushes ahead with new material each term. Somehow she manages to weave it all together into two hugely enjoyable concerts each year, which are both scary and exhilarating. It's the friendliest choir i have ever been in by far, and we have supported each other through thick and thin. It's just so uplifting and the best form of therapy.
Dave, Baritone - I have been a member of FVV for several years, singing in the baritone section. Never having sung in a choir before it has been a great pleasure. Challenging and exciting, with a creative and varied repertoire, and lovely people!
I'm Roger, Baritone, and I joined the choir at its inception. I'd never sung in a choir before and, after initial trepidation, particularly as I don't read music, found it to be a rewarding and uplifting experience. I have thoroughly enjoyed my years with the choir and learnt a lot with the wide range of music in our repertoire which gives us a variety of styles and challenges in rehearsals. The choir has grown over the years, but has maintained a friendly community spirit as its essence. It's a great bunch of people! We are lucky having two very talented people in Lottie and accompanist Emma who lead us through the music. I love it and miss it during the times we are not rehearsing, looking forward to the next season and new music, wondering what Lottie has in store for us!
Hello, I'm Pat (Alto 2 and non elected member of the committee). I've been with FVV from the beginning in 2013 - and it's been quite a journey! Starting as a soprano, then mezzo and now a forever-alto. We've sung just about every type of music and enjoyed them all. Lottie has taught us lots of ways to improve our voices and always makes each song special and interesting. Singing is so goo for the soul, the brain and just general well-being. I've had so many happy years here.
Jill, Alto 1 and non elected member of committee - I've been in several different choirs over the years. Five Valleys Voices is the most fun one with a great group of talented singers and several good musicians. There are a few enjoyable social events which helps in getting to know people as well. For those who are interested in musical theatre, Lottie is very keen for us to act out some of the songs for a better visual effect. While I'm not great at this type of thing, there are some members who are really good performers and enjoy wearing a jaunty hat. We don't have to learn the words and music off by heart as I find that more difficult now I'm older. There are no auditions, which is great for shy people who may want to join. Emma the pianist is excellent. Lottie is very talented musician and conductor who uses technology very effectively.
Jim, Tenor 1 - I joined the group during the Covid epidemic. I needed to find my voice again and have social interaction. I have been involved in music, in one way or another, most of my 69 years on this planet. I strongly advise anyone to get involved. We are incredibly supportive and there is no need to read music or even audition. Hope to see you at our next gig to show you what we can do!
