Carol Pemberton
As the founder of Black Voices, Carol has used her diverse musical experience in developing the group’s artistic mission. Like many of the singers she looks up to, her first musical experiences were nurtured in the black church where her father was the minister. Carol plays cello, piano, saxophone and a variety of wind instruments – but she admits it’s the beauty and range of the unaccompanied voice that moves her most. « When Black Voices speaks through the power of unaccompanied voices and in the black oral tradition, you see and feel the messages being received – to any audience. »
Carol was awarded a MBE in 2014 for her services to music.
Sandra Francis
Singing has always been a great passion for Sandra. From an early age, she sang with her family and in church, where she learned to experiment with harmonies. She has sung with many Birmingham-based bands in the UK, including Roy Gee Energee, a funk and soul band. Central to Black Voices’ sound and with Carol, an original member, Sandra has travelled the world and seen the group blossom from its informal beginnings into the internationally acclaimed quintet that it is today.
Beverley Robinson
An original and returning member, the essence of Black Voices never left Bev. It’s always been a pleasure to be part of such a unique ensemble and to use the voice in such precious ways. Bev has a degree in music and has taught vocals for many years in various schools across Birmingham, directly supporting the success of numerous up and coming vocalists and artists. Bev is a seasoned vocalist and teacher who loves singing a cappella. Black Voices is able to identify with every human condition through its music and it is a delight to be part of that.
Shereece Storrod
At just 17, Shereece embarked on her first tour with Black Voices in Germany. The youngest member of the collective, Shereece graduated from the University of Westminster with a BA (Hons) in Commercial Music and completed a Master of Music in Song Writing at Bath Spa University – passing with Merit. A talented singer, songwriter and arranger, Shereece runs the Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College Choir as well as leading workshops for Black Voices, Harrow Music Service, Music For Change and The Prince’s Trust.
Celia Wickam-Anderson
Celia was destined to be in Black Voices. Her astonishing bass range contributes to the unique Black Voices sound. Brought up in the Christian faith and an accomplished singer and musician, Celia led her own group and was also a member of the London Adventist Chorale. Celia leads workshops on behalf of Black Voices, and also runs and works with community choirs across the UK.