The founder-conductor of the Chippendale Singers, Margaret J Smith LRAM GRSM, was steeped in choral music of all kinds from a very young age and held an early ambition to be a choral conductor, following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather. Having trained at the Royal Academy of Music in London for 4 years as a pianist and violinist, she entered the teaching profession and for twenty years was Director of Music at a prestigious Yorkshire school. Since retiring from full-time teaching, she has carved out a second career as an Adjudicator member of the British Federation of Festivals. This work has taken her all over England and Northern Ireland and has included the Coleraine International Choral Festival on two occasions.
When Margaret is away, her place at the helm is very ably taken by Barbara Johnson, another full-time musician and member of the Soprano section.
Twenty years after founding the choir Margaret has, with great reluctance, decided it is time to “hand over the baton” so that she can give more time to some of her other activities. We are therefore in the process of seeking a new Musical Director to take over in September 2010. If you have suitable experience and would like to know more about the position, please contact our Chairman, Richard Staveley by email.
