Janet taught Music at Wadebridge School for the majority of her professional career, establishing the chamber choir and directing numerous musical performances. When Janet couldn’t find a choir to join herself, she re-established a choral tradition in Port Isaac which had died out in the 1930s. The Port Isaac Singers went on to establish a reputation for excellence countywide and nationally. She then founded the Chorale to satisfy her need to direct an adult mixed choir in the village..

​

Janet also founded the Choral Society in Wadebridge, and became the Musical Director of 'Stage - a -Chord', performing everything from Gilbert and Sullivan to MyFair Lady. Now, in retirement, she teaches piano and singing ,

​

Janet is president of the Wadebridge Festival of Music and Speech. She was awarded her MBE in 2010 for services to Music and the community of Port Isaac.

Jo began playing the piano aged 6 in Exeter, inspired by her teacher, Irene Reed. As a child took part in local music festivals in Exeter and Torbay and performed concertos with Devon Youth Orchestra. Playing with other musicians has always been important to Jo and by the age of 16, she was accompanying fellow students for their Conservatoire entrance exams.  However, Jo decided to pursue a career in IT not music, working at ITN news in London for many years. Following a long illness she returned to music, studying piano with Kenneth van Barthold at the City Lit in London.

​

Jo moved to Cornwall in 2002 and now works as a piano teacher with pupils of all ages, as well as accompanying the Port Isaac Chorale.

 

Jo also accompanies students for music exams and public performance. 

Together, we represent the Chorale 'team'.  It is through our collective commitment and enthusiasm to sharing music and friendship that we come together to sing and perform.  

​

We all relish the opportunity to preserve the Cornish heritage and enjoy opportunities to sing Cornish music and carols alongside a whole variety of pieces from many musical traditions. 

​

​

​

Gareth obtained a BA hons in Music at Bristol University and a PGCE Secondary Music at Durham University, leading to being the Director of Music at Bennett Memorial School and subsequently Bethany School, for over 25 years.

 

Following a move to Cornwall in 2017 he has worked freelance as a member of Independent Society of Musicians, providing individual voice, piano and organ tuition and until 2020 as an accompanist for Cornwall Community Choirs.

 

Currently a Director of Music for the St. Teath Church Choir,, Stubby’s Jazz Band, and the Liskeard Community Choir, a much improving choir now numbering around 65 members.

 

Respectful of the Chorale's heritage and Janet's influence in it, he  will support us in endeavouring to preserve and enhance her legacy. We look forward to welcoming Gareth in September and look forward to a long and successful association.