Accompanist – Lisa Smith

Lisa Smith

Lisa Smith grew up in Chesterfield, the third of four daughters, all of whom were musical. She began her musical education aged 8, learning violin and electronic organ before also taking up the oboe and progressing on to church organ, taking lessons with Robert Girdler at Wingerworth Church.

Having achieved a thorough grounding in all these instruments she went to study oboe at Huddersfield University under Valerie Taylor. Whilst at university she also took organ lessons from Keith Jarvis and held the position of organ scholar ar Huddersfield Parish Church.
Upon graduating from university she returned to Chesterfield and began to forge a career in music, holding the position of organist firstly at Alfreton Parish church, then at Rotherham Minster. She also played the oboe in local bands and orchestras.
During this time Lisa also studied for a maths degree with the Open University, gaining first class honours before proceeding to postgraduate study, also with the Open University.
Following the arrival of her family she returned to playing the organ at local churches and currently plays regularly for several churches in the Alfreton and Chesterfield areas. Lisa also plays the oboe in Chesterfield Symphony Orchestra and for local drama productions.
Lisa began accompanying Alfreton Male Voice Choir in 2003 and is delighted to still enjoy the challenges 14 years later.