Gina Blease

Gina was drawn to music from a very young age. As a toddler, she would often sing her own version of opera — sometimes with such enthusiasm that it once caused a lady dropped her eggs in the supermarket when Gina hit a particularly high note. She was also fascinated by the Wurlitzer Organ at Blackpool Tower, arranging her books like its keys and pretending to play. By the age of five, Gina had decided she wanted to learn every instrument in the world. Her mum wisely suggested starting with the piano. A year later she began violin lessons, followed soon after by singing lessons. By the time she went to university, Gina had achieved ABRSM Grade 8 in all three disciplines.

Although she enjoyed many subjects at school, music was the natural choice for university. Gina graduated with a 2:1 in Music from the University of Manchester. While studying, she became involved with a healthcare charity, performing on hospital wards at Manchester Royal Infirmary. She would sing well-known songs before chatting with patients and visitors, using music as an icebreaker and a way to bring people together. Those experiences showed her how powerful music can be. Patients who were quiet or withdrawn, often due to dementia, would come alive at the sound of a familiar song — tapping their feet or singing along.

Through this work, Gina realised her passion was not simply performing, but helping others experience joy through music. She led a choir for university students and founded the outreach branch of the music society. One of her favourite projects was organising an animal-themed music workshop and concert for 90 primary school children, involving 50 musicians dressed as animals. Only four children had heard of an orchestra before that day; afterwards, they were all debating which instrument was best.

After graduating, Gina built a varied career combining music with other professional roles, while continuing to develop her work in the arts. Alongside freelance projects, including Musical Director for a nationally touring musical, she also worked in the social impact world as a consultant to mission-led organisations until 2026, alongside her work with Rock Choir.

In 2022, Gina joined Rock Choir and instantly loved how closely it aligned with her belief in bringing people together through singing. She loves helping members learn their favourite songs, grow in confidence, and perform at inspiring events such as BBC Comic Relief, BBC Radio 2’s Jeremy Vine Show, the Edinburgh Fringe, and many wonderful local community events.