I’ve been singing with Surrey Harmony for fifteen years and I reckon it’s what keeps me young (ish!) says Sheila Doherty.

I say young-ish as I’ve just had an ‘in between the big 0s’ birthday and following the precepts of the book “When I grow old I’ll wear purple” I’ve decided I’m going to do the things I want to even if they do seem slightly outrageous!
 

In my other life (yes, there is life outside barbershop!) I work as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant, teaching music in a primary school in the afternoons and working in the classroom alongside the teacher in the mornings. [Something else that keeps me young (ish!)] I also accompany our Infants School Choir and this year they ‘re going to Birmingham Symphony Hall (our Convention venue for next year) to compete in the finals of the National Music for Youth Festival so that’s something to look forward to.

Trying to keep my feet on the ground at home, are my husband of 35 years, Martin and my family, Kieran 31, Neil, 30 and Jean 26. They’ve all grown up to the sound of bass tapes, and as they’ve all left the nest it’s only Martin who has to ‘suffer’ now! At least they encourage my efforts to remain fit: I go for a swim most mornings before work (in the pool at 6.30 am) and try to do an hour in the gym after school – great for working off frustration! In my spare (not a lot) time I play the piano to relax.

I’m also just beginning my last year on the Sweet Adelines Regional Management Team and I’ve had such fun working with a variety of wonderful women who can deal with stress and hard work with a smile and good humour. I’ve learnt so much about myself and been able to develop as a person as I’ve met the various challenges which being an RMT member can bring.

I think we’re one of the best regions in Sweet Adelines International and I’m proud to be a member of Surrey Harmony and of our Regional Management Team.

Sheila Doherty

This article originally appeared in the 'Harmony Rag' on the Sweet Adelines UK web site.