Meet Emily
I’m a trained choral singer with a passion for folk music and natural singing. I’ve sung in big choirs at big venues, and that still holds a special place in my heart. But since becoming a Mum, finding a space to connect with other women through song in an informal and supportive environment led me to appreciate the beauty of natural singing for wellbeing.
Singing has, until fairly recently, always been a hobby (albeit an involved one!). I’ve built a career working as an editor for magazines in the homes and interiors sector. But after maternity leave I, like many mothers, made the decision to return part time. Filling time with a toddler led me to pursue natural singing and music making. The bonus is that my daughter has grown up surrounded by music – she even started singing before talking!
Singing Mamas
My daughter was six months old when I went to my local Singing Mamas group. I was new to the area and didn’t know any other local mums. After a rough start to motherhood that led to a PTSD diagnosis, Singing Mamas was the best medicine and I wish I’d found it sooner. A year and a half later, I’ve made great friends and it’s a highlight of my week.
In fact, I was so moved by what Singing Mamas gave to me, that in March 2023 I did the training to become a Singing Mamas leader. I want to spread the word of this amazing way for women to connect and support each other through song.
The Sevenoaks Singing Mamas group is an exciting venture for me to channel my long-standing hobby of singing into something that helps other women – especially those who perhaps are feeling a little lost in motherhood, as I was.
Choral Singing
Coming from a family of choral singers, I started singing in my local Church choir at the age of six and it’s led me to do some amazing things, as well as pick up some singing qualifications along the way.
I’ve been a part of various choirs, big and small, including the BBC Symphony Chorus. Highlights include singing at Last Night of the Proms in the Royal Albert Hall, concerts at the Barbican and evensongs at Westminster Abbey and St George’s Chapel, Windsor.
These days, I still sing with chamber choir Invicta Voices – check out what concerts we’ve got coming up at www.invicta-voices.com.
Folk Singing
I’m part of a female folk trio called Garden Voices. We sing close-knit harmony with cello and are currently recording an album (watch this space!). Singing without sheet music is fairly new to me, and I’m enjoying the challenge of remembering words and tunes by heart and not relying on sight reading. We rehearse surrounded by children – it’s amazing what mums can achieve together when their attention is half focused on cheeky toddlers!
Journalism & Editorial
I’ve spent over a decade working in magazine journalism across a range of homes and interiors titles. I’m currently the deputy editor at leading self build and renovation title, Build It, where I look after all the case study articles and the brand’s supplement portfolio, amongst other things! Check out my LinkedIn for more info.