Singing Group Events in Portsmouth
I absolutely love El Morgan and first heard her sing at Women in Art, an exhibition that happened last Spring. Since then, I have been down to Southsea Sound and enjoyed seeing the work that El, Tim and the team get up to. When I heard that El was bringing a new singing group to Southsea, I just had to find out more about it.
El said, “I started Grrls to the Front because I know from experience how transformative and powerful music and community can be. This all-abilities singing group is about more than just singing, it’s about creating a safe, inclusive space where women and gender non-conforming individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered. In a music industry that notoriously lacks diversity, I’ve often been the only woman in the room. I wanted to challenge that by building a community that uplifts those who often feel excluded.
“Our events happen on a Monday once a month at The Wedgewood Rooms in Southsea and our next meet-ups are on Monday, February the 24th at 7 pm and Monday, March the 31st at 7 pm. I hope we see you there!
Asking where the idea came from El said, “This idea came from both my personal and professional experiences. My earliest musical memories are of singing at home with my family, but as I grew older, I realised how few people shared that experience, one that had been so defining for me.
“Outside of my family, I was extremely shy as a child. If you’d told me I’d one day stand in front of people and make any noise, I’d have probably, well…not said anything at all! Joining my school choir and getting involved in plays helped me begin to overcome that shyness. I loved the sense of community, a space where I always knew what I was supposed to be doing and be as outgoing as I liked pretending to be someone else.
“Fast forward 25 years, and I’ve spent much of my career working in high-risk adult services, including learning and physical disability supported housing, drug and alcohol services, women’s refuges, and advocacy for survivors of domestic abuse. The charities I chose to work for were all deeply rooted in the ethics of inclusion and empowerment, values I’ve always been drawn to.
“During this time, I was also leading a double life as a DIY punk promoter, touring musician, and festival booker. I now own and run a recording studio, micro venue and rehearsal rooms called Southsea Sound. We put on events, sponsor local grassroots promoters and join others in promoting Portsmouth as a cultural centre wherever possible. Music and community work have been my life for over 20 years now.
“When I worked in supported housing, the weekly music club was the highlight for many residents. I also ran anti-isolation choirs for the elderly, which became a joyful lifeline for many participants. These experiences reinforced how vital it is for humans to feel a sense of belonging, a community to call their own. Sadly, in today’s world, that’s becoming harder and harder to find unless you’re religious, into certain types of music, or part of a niche group. For stay-at-home parents, marginalised minorities, or the elderly, it’s even tougher.
“Grrls to the Front is the culmination of all these influences—a joyful, inclusive, and trauma-informed but not focused space where participants can grow in confidence, connect with others, and feel empowered through music and laughter. It’s a place to form friendships, learn new skills, and experience the simple joy of singing without the pressure of perfection. Personally, it’s incredibly fulfilling to combine my passions for music, community, and problem-solving in such a meaningful way.”
Check out more about Grrls to the Front by looking at Southsea Sound socials 🙂
