Pendle Ladies' Choir sings the praises of Lancashire Choir of the Year

Community and Cultural Services

Lancashire's Choir of the Year has revealed that winning the competition in 2023 has "done wonders" to raise their profile across the county and has urged their fellow singing groups to enter this year.

Now in its third year, Lancashire Choir of the Year aims to encourage a wide range of choirs from communities, workplaces and schools to come together to showcase their love of singing.

Pendle Ladies' Choir wowed the crowd and judges last year when they took to the stage at the atmospheric Great Hall, nestled in the heart of Lancaster University's campus.

The community choir were named overall winners following their rendition of 'The Nightingale' and 'The Snow', a fitting song choice on a night that saw snow fall across Lancashire.

Caroline Greaves, publicity officer for the choir, said:

"We were absolutely thrilled to be announced the winner because we weren't sure at all on the night.

"So when they announced that we were the winner the whole choir was absolutely thrilled.

"If you look at the pictures you can see how stunned we were."

The choir has welcomed some new members since winning the competition, and Caroline believes doing so has really helped to raise the choir's profile.

"It's done wonders for our reputation across the county, that's been a real plus for us," Caroline said.

"We do quite a lot of community carol singing out in Colne town centre and Barnoldswick town centre and it was surprising how many people mentioned, 'Oh, I've seen you're the Lancashire Choir of the Year, we feel very privileged that you've come to sing for us.'

"We'd really encourage other choirs to enter because it was just such a great experience from start to finish."

Pendle Ladies' Choir won't be returning to defend their crown this year as the group's musical director, John Garrett, has joined the judging panel.

The competition is open to people of all abilities from Lancashire, Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen.

Applying is really easy, you just need to complete a short entry form and we'll contact you with more details on how to submit a video entry, which can simply be a recording of one of your rehearsals.

All video entries must be received by 12 noon on Tuesday 16 July 2024.

The final celebration concert will be held on Thursday 28 November 2024 at the Great Hall at Lancaster University.

The winning choir will be offered a professional recording session and vocal workshop, and the runners up and People's Choice choirs will be offered a professional vocal workshop.

County Councillor Peter Buckley, Lancashire County Council's cabinet member for Community and Cultural Services, said:

"It's really pleasing to hear the positive impact Lancashire Choir of the Year has had on our previous entrants.

"It really is a brilliant experience, so I encourage all choirs to enter, whether you have previously entered or entering for the first time."

Residents are also being reminded that the deadline for Lancashire Artist of the Year is fast approaching, with entries needing to be submitted by Wednesday 12 June.

To find out more about Lancashire Artist of the Year, and to read the full terms and conditions, go to lancashire.gov.uk/artistoftheyear

For more information about Lancashire Choir of the Year, including terms and conditions, visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/choiroftheyear