From her early experiences of performing in Welsh Eisteddfodau Marilynne has developed a lifelong passion and enthusiasm for all aspects of performance. Having studied piano, voice and cello at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama she took a Masters Degree in Education. The combination of these two strands consolidated her interest in Music Performance and Music Education and the interface between the two.
Marilynne is particularly interested in the Practice of Performance and led a research project in that field, the results of which have been disseminated across European Conservatoires.
She is regularly involved in workshops for teachers, conductors, singers and choirs. She continues to work with choirs such as the Lindley School Choir who were winners of the BBC Songs of Praise Choir of the Year 2016. Currently, she is also Deputy Music Director of the Harrogate Choral Society, a choir of over 140 voices.
For the past 17 years she has been involved in long term, sustainable vocal and instrumental projects in South Cumbria, Northumberland and the Ripon and Leeds Diocese. These projects aimed at the Primary age phase are designed to encourage and firmly establish music in schools as well as giving all children the experience of performing together in a large group usually about 400!
Her own performing experience has included singing with professional orchestras and choirs, giving solo recitals and solo parts in opera. She now has a practice as a voice consultant.
As an adjudicator member of the British and International Federation of Festivals she is well established and has adjudicated nationally and internationally. She has been a regular adjudicator at the finals of Music for Youth. In October 2011, she was honoured to be made one of the first Adjudicator Fellows of the Federation and is now Chairman of the Fellows.
When not involved in making or listening to music she enjoys walking - preferably contour walks, collecting English enamel patch boxes and playing “kitchen” bridge.