PAMELA
COOK MBE
Founder of Cantamus Girls Choir and a leading authority on vocal and choral technique.
A journey that began
with fourteen girls.
In 1968, Pamela Cook brought together 14 of her private singing pupils, purely for their musical education, to form an ensemble.
After encouraging comments from choral experts, the group ventured into its first international choral competition with 18 girls. As Pamela herself later recalled, “the fascinating and fabulous journey began”.
From those small beginnings, Pamela led Cantamus to international success and acclaim, establishing a musical tradition that continues to this day.
I brought together 14 of my private singing pupils, purely for their musical education, to form an ensemble.
Experience,
expertise &
influence.
The achievements of Cantamus were rooted in Pamela’s experience and expertise across the musical world. Alongside her career as a solo performer, she held important posts as a lecturer and examiner.
Pamela taught at universities and conservatoires, including the Royal Northern College of Music and the Birmingham Conservatoire.
She lectured internationally on the physiology, use and care of the voice, sharing her knowledge with singers and teachers around the world.
Her private practice included professional opera singers, professional choral singers and Cantamus girls who went on to pursue careers in singing.
A voice respected
around the world.
Pamela served on the jury of international competitions, including the BBC Choir of the Year, and was an expert commentator for The Cardiff Singer of the World for BBC Radio 3.
She published articles in leading journals and became highly sought after for solo and choral workshops at home and abroad.
Choral directors from around the world travelled to Mansfield to observe the methods used in training Cantamus.
A remarkable
musical legacy.
MBE
Pamela was awarded an MBE for her contribution to music.
ROYAL ACADEMY OF MUSIC
Pamela became an Honorary Associate of the Royal Academy of Music.
HONORARY FELLOW
She was made an Honorary Fellow of Birmingham Conservatoire.
VICE-PRESIDENT
Pamela became a Vice-President of the Association of British Choral Directors.
FELLOW OF THE RAM
The Royal Academy of Music made Pamela a Fellow, recognising her invaluable contribution to choral and solo singing.
More than
a choir.
Pamela Cook made a huge contribution to the music world and to the lives of the Cantamus girls who were fortunate enough to work with her.
Her influence lives on through the singers, musicians and musical community that have grown from Cantamus since 1968.
