Welcome to THE FIFTY, a dynamic upper voice choir located in Southend-on-Sea.
We are committed to pursuing excellence, whilst having fun along the way. Our music is heavily influenced by the nostalgia of a bygone era, whereby we intertwine elements of the past in and around more contemporary songs.
Founded in September 2021, the choir is steadily growing in size - our ultimate goal is to reach a membership of 50 individuals. We are a supportive group of singers who share a passion for performing and a commitment to continuous improvement. We thrive on keeping our members challenged and motivated and value collaboration and friendship.
Who runs THE FIFTY choir?
Emma Lindsey
Choral Director
Emma teaches singing and has an MA in Vocal Pedagogy. She performed with Crouch End Festival Chorus for ten years: highlights included Lord of the Rings in Concert and the First Night of the BBC Proms 2022 at the Royal Albert Hall, Ennio Morricone's final UK concert at the O2, as well as Christmas concerts with King's College, Cambridge, singing with Take That and recording at Abbey Road.
Locally, Emma is the Singing Convenor for the Southend Festival of Performing Arts and was previously the Chair of Trustees for Southend Boys' and Girls' Choirs.
She created Southend Vox Community and Chamber Choirs and co-founded Spelthorne Young Voices. Emma is a member of the Association of British Choral Directors and the American Choral Directors Association.
Jessica Byford
Performance Director
Jess is a performer and choir choreographer with over 20 years of experience. Her background in the performing arts, that includes musical and non-musical theatre, choral singing, solo vocalist work and gigging with bands, has influenced and refined her choreographic style and performance skills.
Among her theatre roles, Jess has played Nancy in Oliver! with Southend Operatic and Dramatic Society and Lucinda in Into the Woods with Little Theatre Company, as well as eight years' experience as choral choreographer and performer with Southend Vox Community and Chamber Choirs.
Jess’s experience is also diverse having choreographed for numerous pantomimes, as well playing classic roles such as Elvira in Noel Coward’s Blithe Spirit. With a deep appreciation of music and movement, Jess is dedicated to enriching the choral experience by crafting simple, yet impactful movements that empower choral singers to excel.