PMZ Chair of Trustees.
Director of Fundraising, Children’s Hospice South West and Co-Founder, South West Fundraisers Forum
MUSICAL NOTES
What do you do for PMZ?
As chair of trustees, it’s my joy and privilege to lead the board of trustees (who are all volunteers) in providing governance and oversight for the charity. We do this in partnership with the Chief Executive and Leadership Team; together agreeing strategies, approving budgets and ensure that PMZ can continue to impact the lives of hundreds of people through music.
Do you play any instruments?
In my humble opinion I wouldn’t really describe myself as a musician (having never had a music lesson in my life!) but I spent many years ‘treading the boards’ in musical theatre and have been a worship leader in churches for some 20 years. I play piano and synth, sing (a lot!) and am teaching myself to play the guitar (bar chords are hard!).
What musical instrument would best describe you as a person?
I think I would have to say a saxophone – I’ve always loved the sound it makes and the soulful, moody melodies that can pour out and telling a story through the tunes.
What has music done for you in your life?
As a performer I have always loved music and singing and I am passionate about the transformational power of music. I spent several years touring with musical theatre companies working in some of the toughest areas of the country and was privileged to witness the power of music and the arts in facilitating change; gifting a sense of self-worth and helping empower children and young people to work together and value one another. I believe that music is the most powerful of tools in bringing people together, offering shared experiences and building relationships that have life-long results.
What’s the best bit about working at PMZ?
The team at PMZ are nothing short of inspirational – I have watched in awe at music leaders working with young people, disabled children and adults, old folks in care homes and many more groups. Their skill, their compassion and the joy that they impart through music is nothing short of magic. It is often said that one’s life is made up of, and indeed enriched by ‘moments’ and I can honestly say that some of the most precious moments that I have witnessed have during some of the times I have had the honour of being part of in the work of PMZ.
What’s the first record/CD you ever bought?
Now this is embarrassing! The first single I ever bought was ‘Cotton Eyed Joe’ and if you thought it couldn’t get any worse the first album I bought (or should I say was bought for me by my Grandma for my 13th birthday) was ‘Take That and Party’!!!!!