Joy's Story
 

My family was a musical family, with lots of singing, lots of instruments at home - Piano, guitars, tamborines, accordian, harmonica - my brothers and sisters all played an instrument or sang.  My mother was a superb singer of gospel music.  Father played the guitar, and I was raised in a gospel church, in Northampton, Northants.

I was taught for about three years by Anne Griffin, and performed at classical music competitions, usually coming in the top 3.     

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In the 6th form, I was made Head Girl, which led to me participating in all main school events and concerts.  I also started to enjoy fund-raising, and gave lunchtime performances with a 10p entrance fee - !  to raise money for various charities.   I was spotted by the Lord Mayor of Northampton, and the Head of School was asked to ensure that funds were made available for me to have classical singing lessons.