Classical soprano Nancy May, who lives in Great Dunmow, is touring the UK with celebrated tenor Russell Watson.
Nancy is currently accompanying Russell on his 'Magnificent Buildings' tour, which has taken them from St Albans and Chelmsford cathedrals to cathedrals in Manchester, Winchester and Scotland.
As Russell's special guest, Nancy also shares the stage with Mike Moran, who accompanies the pair on piano.
Nancy said: "I started singing when I was nine years old and when I started to love classical music, Russell was someone I looked up to and I had all of his CDs - so to be on tour with him 21 years later is a dream!"
In addition to the tour, Nancy performs her own concerts locally - including in front of a full house at Dunmow St Mary's Church in January.
She teaches singing to all ages and abilities, with a focus on building confidence, and is currently recording her second album.
She said: "I lost my dad last year just as the tour started which has been really tough and I have found music has really helped me during this time.
"I’m compiling an album of songs which have helped and comforted me during this time."
Nancy also sings in care homes, often performing at Croft House Care in Dunmow, and has sung at Grenfell memorial services in London and for FaNs (Friends and Neighbours) Network, a charity which supports care homes throughout Essex.
Other charities she has supported include Farleigh Hospice, Great Ormond Street Hospital and the Royal British Legion.
Upcoming stops on Russell Watson's tour between June and December include Chepstow Castle, Exeter Cathedral, Truro Cathedral, Hexham Abbey and Liverpool Cathedral.
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She will also appear for solo performances at St Margaret of Antioch Church in Barley and St Nicholas Church in Norfolk.
On August 11, Nancy will perform at St Mary's Church in Stansted Mountfitchet, in a concert entitled 'Music for a Summer Afternoon'.
Nancy released her first album 'With Love' in 2022, her EP 'Why Not' in 2023 and in 2024 she will be releasing her next album 'Unforgettable'.
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