Pendle Ladies Choir was formerly Nelson Civic Ladies Choir which was formed in 1959 by Edward Parr from a small number of sixteen year old girls who were members of the highly acclaimed Nelson Civic Junior Choir - International Eisteddfod winners 1957.
This small band of ladies went from strength to strength and over the years has established itself, both nationally and internationally, as a major force in the world of ladies’ choirs.
In 1999, after over 40 years as Musical Director, Ted moved to Cornwall with his wife Kath to live nearer to his family. He now holds the honorary title of ‘Conductor Emeritus’.
When Ted retired the position of Musical Director was filled by acclaimed local musician Nigel Wilkinson, who continued to develop the choir and achieved further success. He was succeeded in 2003 by John Garrett, who continued directing the choir for 23 years. Our current musical director is Julie Townson.
Our present accompanist is Elizabeth Cockshott, who joined us in 2018.
The choir has won many first prizes at leading music festivals including the Llangollen international Eisteddfod, Mrs Sunderland in Huddersfield and the Elgar festival in Worcester. It also won 1st prize in the BBC TV ‘Grand Sing’, were finalists in Sainsbury’s ‘Choir of the Year’ and featured in the hit BBC TV Series 'Last Choir Standing', successfully getting into the final 28 choirs from hundreds that applied.
Away from the competitive platform the ladies enjoy relaxed concerts, performing music ranging from the classics to modern musicals and pop. In addition to our regular concerts we also perform at weddings.