This week we shine the spotlight on Louisa who has set up No More Nursery Rhymes – a choir for Manchester parents. We LOVE this idea as we can totally appreciate the feeling of needing some time for yourself – but having to take your little ones along. This sounds like the perfect compromise to ensure babies are happy and parents get to meet up and sing!
What’s your name and where do you come from?
Louisa, now living in Monton to be closer to my stepson – but am a Chorlton girl at heart!
Can you tell us a bit about how No More Nursery Rhymes was born?
I’ve sung in a choir for years now, and knew that when I was on maternity leave, that I’d want to carry on – but during the day. It took me 18 months to get my head back into gear after having my daughter, so I’m pleased to have finally launched it! During maternity leave I struggled to find a class that I really liked, and so I wanted to create an environment where mums can come and have something in common to talk about, that’s not just about babies! No More Nursery Rhymes is aimed very much at the mums, singing with your babies.
We sing all sorts of stuff, with lyric sheets, whilst your little ones play on the mats.
What type of music can we expect to hear the choir singing?
It is pop songs, show tunes, guilty pleasures, classic anthems, and a whole load of nonsense! And absolutely no Nursery Rhymes!
What about if singing isn’t your forte but you want to give it a go?
You don’t have to be able to read music, sing in tune, or even want to sing out loud – we’re totally inclusive and friendly – the group is just about singing for pleasure and nothing else.
What are the top tunes on the kitchen disco playlist in your house?
Wham, Greatest Showman and Kylie – absolute cheese, but I’m also partial to a spot of Fall Out Boy, and Oasis – so pretty much anything and everything.
What was the first album or single you bought and on what format?
I think it was Aerosmith ‘Crazy’ – I was brought up on MTV, and their videos were amazing!
What’s the best gig you’ve ever been to and who would you love to see in the future?
I’ve just been to see Britney, who was epic / ridiculous but the best one I’ve ever been to was Fleetwood Mac – they were just incredible!
What’s a mealtime favourite in your house and can you share the recipe?
Simple roast chicken and boiled potatoes – I love the timer on my oven! I can whack it in at 6.30am and it’s ready at tea time!
Where is your top tips for a knees up without the nippers?
I recently came across Bongo Bingo and I LOVED IT! Totally ridiculous, OTT and right up my street!
Where across the North West would you recommend for family days out?
I love Brockholes – near Preston. We have spent many an hour there building dens. My little girl also loves The Hideaway in Partington – we’re usually there before it opens 😉
If you were wearing a band T-shirt which band would it be?
The ultimate boy-band A-ha. I have loved Morten Haarket for many many years.
Are there any other local small businesses you want to give a shout out to?
Big whoop to TinyTalk South Manchester – they’ve been incredibly helpful and supportive whilst I’ve been setting up No More Nursery Rhymes. And obviously OKS – can’t wait for my little girl to be a bit bigger so we can enjoy your events together!
How can we find out more about No More Nursery Rhymes?
On FB www.facebook.com/nomorenurseryrhymes and on Instagram @nomorenurseryrhymes
If you like sound of a break from nursery rhymes, a chance to socialise AND sing your heart out, then you can find Louisa on FB here – get in touch and give it a go!