We're lovely (if we do say so ourselves!) and when you become part of our choir family you'll meet lots of interesting, friendly and welcoming people. Sometimes, though, it's nice to put a face to a name, so here are a few you might like to know.
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Jon Szunko - Musical Director
Jon joined NPV as a bass in 2016 and has, somewhere along the way, graduated to the position of Musical Director.
Like many musicians, Jon’s musical journey began by tormenting his parents with enthusiastic attempts at the recorder as a child. Before long, he graduated to the clarinet, eventually going on to study music at university, where he earned a top degree in the subject. Since then, Jon has continued spreading musical chaos far and wide, even managing to build a career as a secondary school music teacher. There, he has discovered that the best way to keep an audience engaged is to place them in a classroom with the threat of detention if they attempt to leave.
At the heart of Jon’s musical philosophy is one simple idea: music should be fun. If you are not enjoying making music, then what is the point? Community and accessibility are equally important to him. Too often, music is seen as something reserved for the privileged or those fortunate enough to have had lessons and instruments growing up. As a result, many people wrongly believe that music is “not for them,” when in reality music is something deeply human that everyone can connect with, sometimes we just need help finding the confidence to tap into it.
At Northern Proud Voices, Jon strives to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy making music together. He firmly believes that the more fun people have, the better they sound. Everyone has a voice and everyone should be proud to use it.
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Andrew Richardson - Accompanist
Northern Proud Voices had their first rehearsal on Friday 25th March 2011 and Andrew Richardson played piano for us. He's been with us from the very beginning and we're happy to tell you that eight years later he's still supporting choir as a singing tutor and accompanist.
Andrew said, "I have very much enjoyed accompanying Northern Proud Voices and watching them grow and evolve as a choir." He lives in South Shields and works as a peripatetic pianist for many Primary Schools in the South Tyneside area. He has written several musicals for children which have been performed all around the borough.
Andrew is also the resident pianist for popular singing group 'Encore' who perform at the Customs House twice a year. He loves all styles of music but admittedly his favourite genre is musical theatre.
Our Committee
Our hard working committee are passionate about Northern Proud Voices and are dedicated to making sure we are a vibrant, sustainable community choir. the committee are very approachable and welcome anyone's input and suggestions from all.
Kathleen MacDonald (She/Her) - Chair
Kath MacDonald, Alto, I have been in choir since 2011
Over the years I have been an ordinary committee member, secretary and Chair. In September 2020 I was re-elected as the current Chair of NPV.
Why did you join Northern Proud Voices?
Because Sam (below) talked me into it, so glad I listened to her for once!
What have been your personal highlights to date since being a member in Northern Proud Voices?
There have been many, from Hand in Hand Festivals, Pride performances to collecting the Building a Stronger LGBT+ Community Award in 2017 at the North East LGBT Awards.
What are your favourite songs to sing that are in Northern Proud Voices back catalogue?
'This is Me’ - The Greatest Showman, 'Born This Way' - Lady Gaga and 'Spice Girl Megamix' - Spice Girls/NPV
What would you say to someone who is reading this and thinking of joining Northern Proud Voices?
Go for it!! You’ll love it!
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Marianne Good-Bruce (She/Her) - Treasurer
Why did you join Northern Proud Voices?
I have always enjoyed singing and performing. When I first came out as a lesbian, I wanted to find a safe space to socialise that did not involve being out on 'the scene.' My days of clubbing had been short lived and were a distant memory by this point! NPV was the perfect fit - an inclusive LGBT space that allowed me to enjoy one of my favourite past times. From the first night I was made so very welcome so going back was never in doubt - there's not many choirs out there quite so delighted when a soprano rocks up! (Note - we're still keen on adding to the ranks of the soprano section!)
What have been your personal highlights to date since being a member in Northern Proud Voices?
I always love performing but never more so than on the main stage of the Beacon Centre at Bristol's Hand in Hand event. With 2000 in the auditorium and singing the absolutely fantastic Tattoo and Unruly Heart on stage with the choir took my breath away.
What are your favourite songs to sing that are in Northern Proud Voices back catalogue?
The first songs I performed with NPV will always have a special place in my heart! They were Secret Love from Calamity Jane, Rhythm of Life from Sweet Charity
What would you say to someone who is reading this and thinking of joining Northern Proud Voices?
Come along and give it a go! It is the most welcoming of spaces. I was initially worried that I could not attend every week due to other commitments - that wasn't a problem! - you come as often as you can. Not sure which part to sing? Not a problem! - try all the sections out for size! Can't read music? Not a problem! Can't sing? - not true! You just need to find the right notes for you.
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Nat Bradley (He/Him) - Secretary
Hi, I’m Nat and I’m a Bass. I joined Northern Proud Voices in 2025.
Why did you join Northern Proud Voices?
I joined because I wanted to be part of an LGBT+ community that felt welcoming, supportive, and genuinely fun to be around. I’ve always been involved in performance, entertainment, and music in different ways, but choir felt completely different in the best way. There’s something really powerful about a room full of people being unapologetically themselves while creating something together.
As someone who is neurodiverse, I also found it refreshing to be part of a space where individuality is celebrated rather than hidden. The energy, acceptance, and chaos-in-a-good-way feeling of choir clicked with me very quickly.
What have been your personal highlights since joining Northern Proud Voices?
Honestly, the people. Everyone was incredibly welcoming from day one and it didn’t take long before rehearsals became one of the highlights of my week.
I’ve also loved seeing how much work goes on behind the scenes to make the choir happen, which is part of what inspired me to join the committee. I’m someone who loves organising, connecting people, and helping ideas become reality, so becoming Secretary has been a huge personal highlight too. I hope to make a real difference to the choir and people's lives.
What are your favourite songs from the Northern Proud Voices repertoire?
Anything dancey, big, dramatic, or a bit camp usually ends up being a favourite for me. I especially love songs where you can really feel the energy in the room and the audience reacting to it. Particular favourites are Your Disco Needs You by Kylie, Good Luck Babe by Chappell Roan and A Thousand Years by Christina Perri.
What would you say to someone thinking about joining Northern Proud Voices?
Just come along and try it.
You don’t need to be an experienced singer, you don’t need to read music, and you definitely don’t need to have everything figured out before you walk through the door. Choir is one of the most welcoming and supportive spaces I’ve been part of.
Whether you’re looking for community, confidence, friendships, performance opportunities, or just somewhere you can properly be yourself for a couple of hours a week, you’ll find it here. And if you’re nervous, chances are most of us were too when we first walked in!
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Catherine Hall (She/Her) - General Committee Member
Hi, I’m Catherine and I sing as a Soprano, I joined the choir in October 2021.
I was encouraged to join by our MD Jon as we both worked in the same school at the time. After Covid I missed singing in the choirs at school as it took a while for things to return to normal. I turned up for rehearsal one evening and that was it, I was hooked. I was made so welcome. I have always loved music with singing being one of my many hobbies.
My highlight performances have to be singing in Newcastle Cathedral as the acoustics sends shivers down my spine and being part of the Hand in Hand festival in Bristol in 2024 when we sang brilliantly at the Gala Performance.
I have made so many friends in the choir, something I hadn’t thought of when joining. I recently retired and joined the Committee as I hope I can give back so much that the choir has already given me.
Don’t hesitate to join, I promise you won’t regret it.
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Richard Hijlkema (He/Him) - General Committee Member
I am Richard from The Netherlands and I sing tenor.
I have been a member of this fabulous choir since 2016, when my friend invited me to "go to this choir". Presuming we were going to watch a choir perform, I asked him if he had the tickets, he said: "No we aren't gonna watch a choir, WE ARE IN IT! With a little bit of Dutch courage (pardon the pun) I went along with it.
It's the best thing that ever happened to me.
Every Thursday between 7pm and 9pm I switch off from my daily hectic life and sing, socialise, meet new people, it's great! I even met my boyfriend Charlie here!
Highlights for me: Performing at the Hand In Hand choir festivals, every 2 years, where I performed in Manchester, Cardiff and last year at Bristol.
I love Northern Proud Voices so much, I even joined the European Queer Choir last year as well!
See you at RoCoCo next Thursday, you know you want to :)
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Gary Manson (aka Gina Strings) He/him -
General Committee Member
Hi, I'm Gary, also known as Gina Strings (on the weekends). I've been with the choir now for three years.
In my day job I am a full-time carer, but still find time to perform as a soloist either in social clubs or busking (yes busking) on the streets of the North East. I've been a performer for over 25 years acquiring many different skills and talents over that period.
I originally joined choir as a tenor and I am currently a sopranist, male soprano (yes I can just about get up there hehehe). My personal goal in choir is to eventually learn all sections (especially when it comes to cold and flu season)!
I'm lucky enough to have performed with choir at many of the prestigious events we have attended, including Hand in Hand at Bristol in 2025 and a full menagerie of Pride events across the years.
Known for my elaborate and sometimes questionable clothing choices I am certainly not shy and will try to recruit new choir members to join NPV at any given opportunity.
As a committee member newbie of 2026 I hope to widen the choir's scope to do more gigs and promote it as best I can. I look forward to the challenges that being a committee member may present and the prospect of many more fabulous years with such a wonderful choir.
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Simon Devlin-Bell (He/Him) -
General Committee Member
I’ve been a member of Northern Proud Voices for just over three years. Beyond singing in the Tenor section, I’ve also served on the committee as both an Ordinary Member and Treasurer.
What drew you to Northern Proud Voices?
I was searching for a meaningful way to connect with the LGBTQ+ community. I wanted a space to build genuine friendships and feel a sense of belonging beyond typical social circles. NPV provided that connection instantly, and it’s become a hugely important part of my life.
What have been your personal highlights since joining?
Serving on the committee deepened my appreciation for the choir’s hard work. However, the true highlight for me is the people and performances. I absolutely love singing here; it brings me pure joy. The buzz of performing is especially exciting. There’s nothing quite like sharing our hard work with an audience and feeling that collective energy.
What are your favourite songs from the Northern Proud Voices repertoire?
I’m a fan of songs that allow us to soar. “What Was I Made For?” is a particular favourite. I know I won the chance to pick a song as raffle prize, so I’m biased, but it was such a beautiful arrangement by Jon, our Musical Director, and an absolute joy to sing. I also love tracks that have heart and allow us to connect emotionally with the music.
What would you say to someone considering joining?
Don’t hesitate - join! I initially came along just for a look, but it’s now a hugely important part of my life. Whether you’re interested in the music, the social aspect, or the behind-the-scenes organisation, there’s a place for you here. If you’re looking for a hobby that brings genuine joy and a group of people you’ll love being around, NPV is the place for you. Come and say hello; we can’t wait to meet you!
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Some of our gorgeous choir peeps
Lucy Watson (She/Her) - Choir Member
Hi, I’m Lucy and joined NPV in June 2021.
Why did you join Northern Proud Voices?
My friend had a dream that I joined a gay choir and text me about NPV. Next thing she knew I’d contacted them and put my name down for the next rehearsal, which I think surprised us all as I had never thought of myself as a singer! As a Late Bloomer I needed to immerse myself in The Community and joining NPV certainly did that!
What have been your personal highlights to date since being a member in Northern Proud Voices?
There’s too many - Durham Pride back in 2022 was a special one because it was my first ever Pride, then singing at Newcastle Cathedral in 2023 (and again in 2024) was pretty awesome. However I’m not sure what can beat the Gala performance at Hand in Hand 2024. It really is such a buzz singing on stage to that many people!
What are your favourite songs to sing that are in Northern Proud Voices back catalogue?
A favourite of mine is ‘Born to Glory’, such a beautiful mashup where so many harmonies come together. Also ‘Only You’ because it reminds me of my childhood and we sing it beautifully.
What would you say to someone who is reading this and thinking of joining Northern Proud Voices?
Do it! It may seem scary but to come somewhere every week where you are accepted as you are, no questions asked, is the best feeling, and to get to sing your heart out for a couple of hours really is a great way to spend an evening! I’ve met some pretty awesome people and the sense of community I feel is like no other; whether you come full of joy or just need a big cuddle and to be left to it, NPV have got your back!
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Simon Berry (He/Him) - Choir Member
I have been a member of NPV since 2014 and have loved every minute of it. It is great to be part of such a diverse and accepting group of people who make fantastic music! I always look forward to Thursday nights and catching up with a lovely bunch of people and singing my heart out. After a busy week at work, NPV is a great stress-reliever and something I always look forward to. I look forward to seeing the choir go from strength to strength in the coming months and years.
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Kate Husband (She/Her) - Choir Memeber
Hi I am Kate and an Alto. I have been in the choir since 2022.
Why did you join Northern Proud Voices?
I had just moved back to Newcastle during Covid after being away for many years and I knew as soon as the choir re-started I would be joining. I knew I needed to find and be part of an LGBT+ community that was safe and supportive and met regularly, more than monthly, so that I could start to build a circle of friends and social activities. I also love music and although I have never sung or been in a choir before I knew that singing with other people can be such an uplifting and positive experience. So I joined the choir; an amazing LGBT+ community + singing = I Found My Tribe = Happy Me.... and I love it.
What have been your personal highlights to date since being a member in Northern Proud Voices? A. The People - it is such a welcoming, gloriously varied and amazing bunch of people to meet up with each week. B. My First concert at Durham Pride - such a great day and I was surprised at how nervous I was but I was giddy as a kipper afterwards. C. Getting to serve on the committee, it's been a wild ride.
What are your favourite songs to sing that are in Northern Proud Voices back catalogue?
I don't have a back catalogue as yet but over the last year my stand out songs have been; Born To Glory, Its a Sin and the Hadrian set of songs specially written for us for the 1500 Anniversary of Hadrian's Wall.
What would you say to someone who is reading this and thinking of joining Northern Proud Voices?
Just Do It - It might feel a bit strange at first and you may feel a bit unsure but just keep coming, people will help you, there is no pressure, no audition, no pressure to perform and you don't have to read music. I didn't know anyone at first but promised myself to just keep going, I went to the pub afterwards every week and people were so friendly. Eventually it just clicks and you feel part of an amazing group of people and the buzz you get is fab and 'Hey Ho' 1 year later I have an amazing bunch of friends, my social life has improved dramatically and I am now on the committee.. Best thing I have done for years.
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James Reid (He/Him) - Choir Member
I’m James. I’m a bass and I joined the choir in January 2024.
Why did you join Northern Proud Voices?
I’ve been a musical person all of my life, being in choirs through school and playing various instruments. I watched my parents perform with their choir in December 2023 and realised how much I missed it. I also wanted to socialise with more LGBTQ+ people in the area, so Northern Proud Voices was a great fit.
What have been your personal highlights to date since being a member in Northern Proud Voices?
It’s been a pleasure to meet so many lovely and likeminded people of all ages.
I only joined NPV in January 2024, but our weekly rehearsals are now the highlight of my week.
My performing highlight from this year has been our concert at Newcastle Cathedral. It was surreal to sing and spread our queer joy in such a beautiful venue.
What are your favourite songs to sing that are in Northern Proud Voices back catalogue?
Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac - the arrangement by our wonderful MD Jon has so much energy and drama. It’s a fun twist on a well known classic.
What would you say to someone who is reading this and thinking of joining Northern Proud Voices?
As Nike says, Just Do It! The fun & friendly atmosphere and the joy of singing will become the highlight of your week
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Rachel Dowdeswell (She/Her) - Choir Member
Hi I’m Rachel. I joined NPV in September 2021 when I was invited along by a friend who knew I liked singing. From the first rehearsal I attended I was struck by the lovely atmosphere. Everyone is made to feel welcome, and the ‘craic’ is good! I have sung in choirs all my life, but NPV has definitely been the most enjoyable and have made good friends there. I enjoy the musical challenge the choir presents. There is no audition or musical background required to join NPV but under Jon’s direction we reach a high musical standard. I always leave the rehearsals feeling uplifted and I find myself belting out the tunes in the car all the way home! (Don’t ask me for a lift!).
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Julie Dixon (She/Her) - Choir Member
Hi I'm Julie and have been a member of our wonderful Choir NPV for 8 years now,
Why did you join Northern Proud Voices?
I have a life long love of singing especially with other people. It can be a such an uplifting experience and singing with other LGBTQI people is really special and bonding. The choir is part of my DNA now and has enabled me to make some really good pals and also sing in harmony which is always great fun!
What have been your personal highlights to date since being a member in Northern Proud Voices?
So many great times over the years - our annual sing at the Tyneside Cinema befor the screening of “It’s a Wonderful life” has to be up there. Obviously singing loud and proud at various Pride celebrations over the years is always very life affirming and reminds us why we need our community.
What are your favourite songs to sing that are in Northern Proud Voices back catalogue?
I will be honest I have loved singing everything we have tried. Sometimes songs take a while to “grow” on you but once they do you can’t get them out of your head. I would love to do more Annie Lennox and Queen songs in future.
What would you say to someone who is reading this and thinking of joining Northern Proud Voices?
In the words of Bob Dylan “don’t think twice it’s all right” !! Seriously come and give it a whirl - we are a friendly bunch who love to sing and socialise - we welcome everyone and are a safe space for LGBTQi family and also straight allies! Come and give it a try !
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Nickey Garnier (She/Her) - Choir Member
Hello I’m Nickey & I’ve been a member of NPV since October 2016. I love to sing, so It’s an important part of my life. Singing with NPV is fun and also creates opportunities for new friendships.
Finally, I’m also one of the (+) members of this fabulously inclusive community and I wouldn’t be without it’s truly inclusive singing love!
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Rhys Cornell (He/Him) - Choir Member
Hi, I’m Rhys and I’ve been a member of Northern Proud Voices since 2022. I’ve loved singing ever since I was a child and being a member of this choir has been an amazing experience, both musically and for making lifelong friends. I’ve never met a friendlier or more inviting group of people and I feel very lucky to be a part of the squad.
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Clare Flanagan (She/Her) - Choir Member
Hello peeps, Clare here, been here for about 5 years, thoroughly enjoying myself!
I am an ally and I sing Soprano and occasionally Alto when they sing too loud.
I have sung most of my life in choirs of different sorts, sometimes in Latin and once in Norwegian. But am truly enjoying the music here at NPV, Beautiful Noise is my current favourite (and no, sadly not Neil Diamond). There is always one song per season I hate but the key is to be enthusiastic and no one notices.
Like most of the committee I joined because someone said I needed to, and they were not wrong. The choir has given me confidence, made me laugh on far too many occasions and given me the opportunity to wear rainbows! I love it.
The highlight of my NVP singing is always the St Nicholas Cathedral gig we have as part of the Pride Fringe, the atmosphere is always one of love and acceptance and we shine under all that!
If you are thinking of joining a lovely little bunch of singers I say to you, give it a go, you will only need enthusiasm and a tiny bit of courage to get through the door. You will probably know all of our songs and it does not matter if you don't know what section you might belong to, just be a free spirit you will find your spot!