Words From Our Chairman
Richard Mitchley
Shwmae a chroeso!
We are a community choir and although we strive to create the best sound we can, you don’t need to be a Pavarotti to join us! We have a wide range of resources to support new choristers. Why not just come along to a rehearsal. You'd be welcomed without having to make any commitment. You may even end up singing at a rugby international!
Lewis Hutton
Musical Director
Lewis brings a wealth of international performance experience and a distinguished musical pedigree to his role as Musical Director of the Monmouth Male Voice Choir.
His conducting foundations were laid during his formative studies under the acclaimed conductor Ben England MBE.
Following this training, Lewis forged an early career as a professional vocalist, performing for discerning audiences in luxury resorts worldwide and aboard the prestigious Cunard liner, Queen Victoria. It was during these global voyages that he put his training into practice, honing his directorial skills by leading international guest choirs of up to 120 voices.
Now based in the Forest of Dean, Lewis is a highly sought-after session vocalist and a respected vocal coach, dedicated to nurturing the region's emerging talent.
His leadership in the choral world is extensive; he currently serves as the Musical Director for the acclaimed Two Rivers Choir and is the CEO and Head Musical Director of the expansive Good Day Choir, which encompasses numerous branches throughout Wales and England.
In his role with Monmouth Male Voice Choir, Lewis is privileged to lead a formidable musical team, working alongside accomplished Conductor & Accompanist Ben Pinnow and Deputy Musical Director Allan Waters. He is committed to combining their collective expertise with his own to honour the choir's rich tradition, while guiding the entire ensemble towards new heights of musical excellence and artistic expression.
Allan Waters
Deputy Musical Director
Allan, a seasoned freelance musician, brings a wealth of musical expertise to every performance. With a versatile skill set encompassing choral singing, viola mastery, and
music arrangement, he has made a significant impact on the music scene.
For over 15 years, Allan has been a valued member of the much-admired BBC National Chorus of Wales, showcasing his vocal talent on prestigious stages. In addition to his solo endeavours, Allan collaborates with acclaimed ensembles such as the Isca Singers Quintet and the Park String Quartet, elevating their performances with his
depth and precision.
His musical journey has taken him across diverse genres and venues, including notable appearances alongside iconic figures like Rod Stewart. Recently, Allan's
exceptional vocal prowess shone as the bass soloist in Mozart’s Coronation Mass.
Now settled in Monmouth, Allan eagerly embraces his role as a member of the esteemed
Monmouth Male Voice Choir, bringing his passion for music to enrich the local
community's cultural landscape.
Ben Pinnow
Accompanist
A South Wales-based choral conductor, accompanist and musical educator, Ben, who is originally from Dorset, completed his Masters in choral conducting at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama under tutors Neil Ferris, Sarah Tenant-Flowers and Simon Halsey. While there he received the Busenhart-Morgan-Evans Bursary awarded by the Worshipful Company of Singers.
Ben studied piano with Richard Ormrod at Cardiff University and holds the ABRSM Diploma in piano performance. Currently, Ben works as musical director for Côr Bro Ogwr, City Voices Bristol, Roath Community Chorus and is co-founder/director of Cardiff Chamber Choir.
Ben is pianist and artistic lead of Forget-me-not Chorus, plays for Lost Chord and recently took up the position as accompanist for Monmouth Male Voice Choir. He is also an alumnus of the Live Music Now scheme founded by Yehudi Menuhin. He also frequently works on educational and outreach projects with Welsh National Opera and National Dance Company of Wales. Ben sings regularly with BBC National Chorus of Wales and is an organisational partner of the FAKS Sings Festival in Croatia.
