With great enthusiasm, we nominate Linda Grimbergen as the Unsung Champion 2026 of Singing Unlimited for SAI Region 31.
Shortly after the founding of Singing Unlimited in 2013, Linda joined us together with her mother. Since late 2016 she has been part of the Visual Team and over the years she has developed into an indispensable force within our chorus. What makes Linda so special is that she not only regularly steps in front of the chorus, but when she does, she truly owns that space. If there is anyone who can take the stage – or, as she taught us via Erin Howden, the “giant” – with presence and confidence, it is her.
Linda has grown into a strong and confident role model in visual performance. During rehearsals, she increasingly takes the lead, offering instructions that are always clear, refreshingly down-to-earth, and consistently delivered with a great sense of humor.
She knows exactly how to bring out the best in each individual. With respect for everyone’s abilities, combined with energy and when needed a motivating push, she quite literally and figuratively gets the chorus moving. Her energetic warm-ups are inspiring and immediately set the tone for a productive rehearsal.
Linda is also involved in other aspects of Visual Communication: she actively contributes ideas about costumes, makeup and the overall look of the chorus. In her free time, she goes the extra mile by creating clear, well-structured instructional videos – from every conceivable angle and position – so that each chorus member can practice the choreography effectively at home.
Beyond her official role, Linda is wholeheartedly committed to the chorus. She contributes to committees, for example for Christmas or anniversary concerts, and has also developed her skills as a photographer.
And anyone who knows Linda will recognize her keen eye for detail – something we have all experienced firsthand thanks to her close-up makeup tutorials, featuring her own eye.
With her energetic personality Linda is also an inspiring example for the younger singers in the chorus. She continues to take more initiative and demonstrates what true commitment and passion can achieve.
In short, Linda is someone who often makes a difference behind the scenes, with an impact that is truly significant. To us, she is without a doubt our true Unsung Champion 2026!
Bio
Linda works as a community support worker, guiding young people aged 12 and up with autism. She helps them develop planning skills, practice essential life skills and helps them to gradually build their independence. She does this in close collaboration with families, schools, and other professionals involved. With her dedication and genuine care, Linda is fully committed to creating the best possible situation for each client.
In her free time, Linda enjoys staying active. She is a passionate tennis player, competes regularly, and also volunteers for her club. She manages the club’s social media and is involved in organizing their open tournament.
Her dog Mila is, without question, her number one – she especially loves going on walks with her. She also enjoys sunny holidays, where she and her partner love discovering new places together.
Barbershop singing has been close to her heart her entire life. As a young girl, she already attended performances from her mother. Later, she joined Singing Unlimited as a photographer, but when she attended her first convention, Anita suggested she might as well sing too. That’s how she became part of the chorus – and something we are still grateful for every single day.