The first decade (and a bit) 1968-1979

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1968 | 1970 | 1971 | 1972 | 1973 | 1974 | 1975 | 1976 | 1977 | 1978 | 1979

1968

The choir was founded by Pamela Cook.

After winning a local competition, the choir was advised by one of the adjudicators to enter international choral competitions. So much to praise - how Schubert would have loved them! (Maurice Jacobson, Mansfield CHAD).

1970

Freda White became the choir's regular accompanist.

1971

Cantamus, numbering 18 girls, competed in the Montreux International Choral Competition and won 2nd prize. Reached the summit of choral quality. (Journel de Montreux).

The choir featured in a film made in the grounds of Welbeck Abbey, on general release in ABC cinemas.

Produced its first LP record.

1972

In the Bela Bartok Contemporary Music Festival, Cantamus won 1st prize, with an hour's recital of British and Hungarian contemporary music. Received a citation with award: An extremely high level of artistic performance of 20th century music.

The choir hosted the renowned Sofia Ladies' Choir from Bulgaria.

Cantamus won the Great Britain round of BBC Radio 3's Let the People Sing Contemporary Music class and went on to be international finalists in the competition. Probably the most impressive singing heard in this competition since its inception. (Stephen Wilkinson, BBC producer and adjudicator).

1973

Michael Neaum joined as the regular accompanist for Cantamus.

Over and above the Cantamus Ensemble's obvious technical ability, it is perhaps the combination of poise and unforced naturalness that accounts for their phenomenal success. These teenagers radiate a pleasure in their music that says much for the teaching methods of Pamela Cook, their director. (Peter Palmer, Nottingham Guardian-Journal).

The choir gave recitals at the Varna International Music Festival in Bulgaria. Perfect singing and brilliant voices; it proved that it is one of the best choirs in Great Britain. (Narodno Delo).

Cantamus sang at the official opening of a new theatre in Heiligenhaus and toured Germany.

1974

Toured Germany. Cantamus sings into the hearts of the audience. (Heiligenhaus Daily Press).

1975

Produced its second LP.

Gave recitals in Holland. The memory of the perfect singing of this choir of exquisite voices will undoubtedly last. The voices of these English girls displayed a splendour of special beauty and an intensity of expression which constantly adapted itself into the impressive demands of the compositions. The singing was at the same time unspoilt and pure. (Haarlem Daily News).

The BBC recorded and later broadcast on Radio 3 a full recital from St. Michael's Church, Sutton-in-Ashfield.

1976

Ann Irons became a vocal tutor and Assistant Director with Michael Neaum as its sole accompanist.

Two further BBC Radio 3 broadcasts were made. One is lost in admiration, wondering how it is all done. (John Martin, The Guardian).

1977

Made third LP with Osian Ellis (the Queen's harpist) and Michael Neaum.

1978

Cantamus won both the 1st prizes (jury and audience) at the Montreux International Choral Festival. This double prize had only been won once before in 17 years. A group of girls who look as if they spend every day of their lives studying the art of choral singing. They are directed by an admirable musician, Madam Pamela Cook, who makes them reach out to the limits of perfection - perhaps even beyond. (Albert Jacquier,La Suisse, Geneva). Michael Neaum was responsible for two excellent arrangements in the winning programme - Die Nachtigall and The Truth from Above. (L'est Vaudois).

The choir appeared on BBC television.

1979

Won 1st prize, Międzyzdroje International Choral Festival, Poland, with special citation, Never before equalled by any other choir.

Tapes of the choir were used to illustrate lectures on choral technique in Warsaw Conservatoire by Professor Josef Bok.

Pamela Cook was invited to adjudicate at the 1980 Międzyzdroje Competition, Poland.