One word sums up Valerie Taylor: inspirational. In fact, there is a brick in the patio at Sweet Adelines International headquarters which says “Valerie Taylor, our inspiration” which was a gift, presented with love, from Vocal Dimension Chorus (VDC). Valerie is the director of VDC and consider themselves so incredibly lucky to have her as leader. Val is a talented musician and educator and shares her knowledge and expertise with the chorus in a way that makes learning an absolute joy.
Valerie has led this small but mighty chorus from its beginnings just six years ago and helped to achieve more than they ever thought they could. A high point was representing Region 31 on stage in Baltimore at the 2014 International Harmony Classic contest. Valerie also represented Region 31 in Baltimore as the baritone of Domino, the Region 31 quartet champion of 2014.
Valerie has enormous passion for Sweet Adelines International and its ideals. Her energy is boundless and her own enthusiasm for learning means that she always has plenty of knowledge and experience to share with her chorus and with Region 31 through coaching, education and mentoring. Val has been a Region 31 educator since 2006 and as well as presenting various classes at educational events has successfully mentored many people through the Director Certification Programme.
Everyone was very proud of Valerie when she qualified as a Sound Judge – the first one in Europe! She now regularly judges regional contests around the world and Valerie’s engaging and infectious personality has meant that she has developed great relationships throughout the Sweet Adelines global organisation.
Valerie has coached numerous quartets and choruses throughout the region and beyond. In particular, Valerie has mentored three choruses in Germany as part of the Worldwide Liaison programme, and earlier this year was thrilled to be asked by international headquarters to take on the role of Worldwide Coordinator for Europe.
Valerie has been a tireless ambassador for Region 31 within the Sweet Adelines organisation, served in two different roles on the Regional Management Team and was instrumental in setting up Barbershop in Harmony. She has also undertaken various roles within the International organisation, including involvement with the International Editorial Review Board, the International Task Force for Regional Boundaries and the International Nominating Committee.
It is easy to list Val’s achievements and qualifications but on top of those amazing credentials, she is so much more than that. Every single member of VDC would personally count her as a friend. She provides friendship and support to all. Whether it be a serious health issue or a crisis of confidence in performance skills, Valerie is always there with a wise word and a hug!
VDC’s motto is “making music and having fun doing it” and this is what Valerie is all about. While the chorus wants their performances to be the best they be can technically, Valerie ensures that the ultimate focus is on sharing the music with others and feeling the joy within it.