A new chapter begins: Celebrating Sue and welcoming Katharine
After 15 incredible years, our choir is embarking on a new journey. As we turn the page, we find ourselves reflecting on the remarkable legacy left behind and the exciting future that lies ahead.
A heartfelt farewell to Sue
It is hard to put into words what Sue has meant to this choir. Since our very first rehearsal, Sue has been our heartbeat. What started as a small hospital choir, conceived as a musical antidote to the pressures of life in the NHS, grew under her gentle guidance into the 60-strong ensemble we are today.
Sue didn’t just teach us how to sing; she nurtured a community. She was the glue that held us together, transforming a group of colleagues into a supportive family where friendship was just as important as the music. From our biannual concerts to the local Newcastle Under Lyme Festival of Music and our proud tradition of singing at the UHNM Service for International Nurses Day, Sue’s vision was the driving force.
Her tenure culminated in our spectacular "Let’s Party" Christmas concert. It was a night of joy, laughter, and a few tears, serving as the perfect celebration of her contribution and a chance for us all to say a grateful farewell.
In addition to our final concert, we couldn't let Sue go without a proper send-off. We held a surprise thank-you party where the choir and individual members took to the stage to perform songs dedicated to her. It was an afternoon filled with music and memories, and honestly, we still don't know how we managed to keep the whole thing a secret from her!
Sue, thank you for everything. You made us who we are.
Looking forward: Welcoming Katharine
While Sue’s presence will be missed, we are absolutely delighted to introduce our new Musical Director, Katharine, who joined us in January 2026. Katharine is a passionate advocate for the performing arts and has been a vibrant part of the Staffordshire music scene since graduating from university.
She brings a fresh energy to our rehearsals, seamlessly blending vocal technique with a focus on humour and well-being. Katharine ensures that every session has music, friendship, and fun at its heart, often incorporating a weekly joke or quote for a laugh, a ‘word of the week’ for inspiration, and engaging a cappella rounds, such as the crowd-favourite ‘Gin & Tonic.’ With this wonderful blend of professionalism and playfulness, we are confident that Katharine will take us from strength to strength.
Please join us in giving Katharine a huge welcome and wishing Sue a very happy and well-deserved retirement!