President

Della Jones with Richard Hoyle at 2009 Patrons' Concert

Della Jones, one of the finest mezzo-sopranos of her generation, became President of Croydon Male Voice Choir in 2009.  Della, who lives locally,  was born in Tonna, near Neath. She studied at the Royal Academy of Music, where she won the Kathleen Ferrier Memorial Scholarship.  She made her professional debut in Geneva, singing the roles of Feodor in Boris Godunov and Olga in Eugene Onegin.  She joined the English National  Opera in 1977 and the Royal Opera House in 1983.  

Della is renowned for her versatility and performed at such grand occasions as the Last Night of the Proms in 1993. the handover of Hong Kong in 1997, and the Cardiff Millennium Gala in 2000.   She has recorded prolifically, ranging across opera, song recitals, concert and contemporary music.  She has won high praise for her interpretations of Handel, Mozart, Rossini, Donizetti and Britten.  Critics cite her impeccable coloratura technique, her strong feeling for words and music, and her readiness to tackle the most demanding roles.  She has a warm, bubbly personality that has won her friends throughout the musical world. 

Della said she was "thrilled and honoured" to become choir president.  "Coming from south Wales, I have a natural affinity for male voice choirs."