Our Choir is directed by Steve Dawe
Either Nola or Jill will be your first point of contact. They organise our emails, diary, bookings, newsletter, name badges, subs etc etc. You get the picture... They are the beating heart we can't do without.
Martine does the maths and keeps us on track.
Hallelujah!
Steve
In 2005 just a few days before my father died, aged 64, he told me to chase my dreams with these words... "If there is anything you want to do in life, don't leave it until it's too late". As I had always loved gospel music I decided to join a local Gospel Choir. My search for a local gospel choir was in vain as there were none. So in short, with no formal music or choir training, I decided to set one up. 17 years on my first gospel choir has become a well-known and respected Gospel Choir and I have had the opportunity to be trained by and perform with some of the gospel greats in the UK. My goal is to pass on this burning passion for gospel music, so that others experience and share the fun, joy and freedom that this music brings. Gospel music is a message of hope and has the ability to pull people from dark places. Being asked to work with Salcombe Community Gospel Choir is an honour and a privilege and I will give you all the support I can. I'm sure dad would approve...
Nola
I am so privileged to be a member of this wonderful community gospel choir and feel a great connection singing soul-stirring songs with such warm hearted people in this beautiful part of Devon.
Being a holistic fusion fitness teacher and sound therapist I feel singing from the heart with passion is so beneficial to mind, body, emotions and spirit. I am sure all the members benefit in some way and feel supported along their unique journey of life.
Vibrational energy is so important to our healing and I visualize all the cells dancing in my body with joy. Having learnt bass guitar through lockdown too I know the benefits of rhythm, harmony, melody and brain gym are so beneficial to our wellbeing.
Jill
I have always sung with School and Church choirs since very young. I started singing with this choir from the very early days and have seen it go from strength to strength with each Musical Director. It has been a total pleasure. The retirement of our last Musical Director and Covid nearly saw the choir finished off, but once we were able to start again; a few phone calls and here we are, back stronger than ever with the same wonderful spirit of support, caring and friendship.
My history. From Yorkshire to Gloucestershire and onward to Hope Cove. Having retired as an independent Financial Adviser spending more time in the voluntary sector. Currently as a First Responder for South West Ambulance Service for the last 13 years, raising funds for Sense, children and young adults who are deaf and blind. Also organizing long kayaking tours amongst other projects.
I always say to our lovely members that this is their choir. And it is !
Martine
My first memories of singing were to be told: "quieter please Martine" and later told that I sounded like " a horse". So I mimed till I joined SGCC and received so much encouragement that years later I am still here and gaining in confidence and enjoying the journey..