90 Minutes of Harmonious Singing and Fun!

Torch Voices (Lleisiau’r Torch), here at the Torch Theatre is back!

We think it’s time for us all to admit that everyone loves a good sing (even if it’s in the shower), and we know Torch Theatre’s over 18s Community Choir is the perfect place for you to do it!

Come join us and the choir leader Angharad Sanders, an experienced choral director every Thursday between 6pm and 7.30pm. There is no audition, and everyone is welcome.

Anwen still needed some convincing to put down her hairbrush microphone and join the choir, so she caught up with Angharad to see what Torch Voices is all about….. 

First of all, what can people expect from Torch Voices?

Lots of fun, we laugh a lot! We work on vocal technique through fun warm-ups that are tailored to support technique and strength of the voice. The members themselves choose the music we sing, and whilst sheet music is provided, there is no requirement to read music or audition to join. It's just a space to come and sing your favourite music in lovely harmony with the group. 

Who are the Torch Voices sessions for? 

Anyone who wants to make great music and have some fun. 

Do you perform outside of the Torch?

We have previously performed in all sorts of places - on the Marina, at Scolton Manor, in the Studio Theatre and for the World Rowing Championships, currently we are mostly doing bar performances before press and guest nights, as well as preparing songs which will feature as part of the Torch Youth Theatre’s next production Wind In The Willows.

Now we’ve heard a bit about your sessions and what you get up to can you tell us a bit more about you, how long have you been leading Torch Voices?

I approached Peter Doran (the previous Artistic Director at the Torch) in 2019 about running a singing group at the Torch. He was really kind and gave me the space to start and grow the group. We discussed a name in great detail and decided Voices (Lleisiau), as we wanted it to be a fully accessible and open to people who just loved to sing. When Covid hit, we moved online for nearly two years, but I'm truly grateful to the members for continuing to sing and logging in each week. We returned to the studio after my maternity leave in 2022, and since January 2023 the choir has rehearsed every Thursday evening, becoming an 18 and over group. You can join us for a term or pop along and try us out with one of our drop-in sessions, without the need for long term commitment. 

Tell us a bit about your singing experiences.

I trained at the University of Huddersfield and Leeds College of Music, and I’ve worked prolifically in the worlds of education and professional performance in various genres. As a choral leader, I’ve worked with the Military Wives Choir (Northolt) for many years, alongside the Lichfield Garrick Community Choir and the Gelliswick Community Choir.

My theatrical credits include “Madagascar” (international tour) as well as more local work with Saundersfoot Footlights and their forthcoming production of “The Addams Family”.  As a vocalist I’ve performed with various ensembles in venues across the country, including as a piano/vocal soloist, appearing at venues across Pembrokeshire. I’ve also worked as a session vocalist, writing, arranging, and performing material for many varied contracts. I’m passionate about working with young artists and emerging talent and I currently offer one to one and group singing lessons in Pembrokeshire, under the banner of “Limelight School of Performing Arts.”

Finally, do you have a message for those thinking of joining Torch Voices?

Just come along and join us! It can feel so daunting joining a new group, but we are fun and friendly, and we just love to sing. 

And if you need any more convincing take our word for it that music is good for the soul as well as good for the mind and wellbeing.