Bedford Rock Choir hits the high notes to mark 15th anniversary
Bedford Rock Choir celebrated its 15th anniversary by raising the roof with a party at the town’s Harpur Suite to mark the special occasion.
During the past 15 years, Bedford Rock Choir has become well-known, appearing at hundreds of major events including Bedford Proms in the Park and Bedford River Festival. They’ve performed in the town square and at care homes, bringing joy to everyone who has had the chance to watch them sing.
The choir regularly has 165 members attending Bedford Rock Choir rehearsals, making friends for life and learning the uplifting songs from the Rock Choir repertoire.
So it was only right that Rock Choir ‘prefects’ organised a party in September to celebrate the anniversary and the impact the choir has on the community in Bedford. It was attended by around 80 members who enjoyed karaoke, food and dancing. A cake made by Rock Choir member Jo Middleditch took centre stage at the celebrations with a group of Rockies, who joined the choir at the start, presented with their 15-year certificates.
Rob Baker, who had led the choir for the past five years, said: “The party was a wonderful way to celebrate 15 years of our incredible choir. We had karaoke and we also welcomed back the former Rock Choir Leader, Lottie Bagnall. During the karaoke, Lottie and I sang a duet of ‘Summer Nights’ from Grease.
“One of the Rockies, Jo Middleditch, made a cake with Rock Choir Members made from icing and it was brilliant.”
Rob highlighted some of the key moments for the choir including performing at the Bedford Proms alongside singer Russell Watson, singing at Rock Choir Live at the NEC in Birmingham in November 2025, plus a host of flash-mobs.
He added: “Rock Choir has also performed on the sweeping staircase at Wrest Park in Bedford. Rockies told me that was one of their most memorable experiences. We’ll be performing at the Bedford Christmas Lights switch-on this year and the Christmas Tree Festival at St Paul’s Church.
"There’s a really strong sense of community in the Bedford Rock Choir. There are great links between the morning and evening rehearsals and some people come to both. Rockies meet up in the holidays for social events. They make lifelong friends.”
Rock Choir has 29 locations across the east of England and inviting new members to join. There is no need to audition or read music and everyone is welcome. To book a free taster session visit the website.