We asked Elle Ashwell, a singing coach, to describe what Arnos Vale meant to her:

“I remember standing in the Anglican Chapel on one sunny December walk and singing ‘Silent Night’ with my partner James and actually getting goosebumps! There’s something very special and particularly moving about singing in this magical space. In fact, it’s so special I’ve been holding showcases for my singing students there every year for the last 4 years”

Elle has been singing on stage and in the studio for the past 16 years. She graduated in 2010 from Bath Spa University with a BA Hons Commercial Music Degree. She currently sings in 3 local Bristol & Bath bands, singing a range of styles including Balkan, blues, rock, ska, indie, pop and more.

“Teaching in Bristol is such a pleasure, with students of all backgrounds, ages & levels coming to my home studio for lessons. And Arnos Vale has really helped give all of them a platform for non-judgmental performance that is so refreshing in a competitive industry”

Last December Elle held another showcase in the Anglican Chapel for families and friends

Afterwards she received some lovely comments:

“You made the hairs on my neck stand up- you were wonderful”

“It gave me so much more confidence performing in front of people – thank you!”

“The Showcases are a fantastic opportunity for her pupils to sing in front of family and friends with professional equipment and in an acoustically amazing venue”

Arnos Vale receives no government or council funding

We rely on the generosity of the public and the income from our private and public events to keep this historic gem open for the community. Covid-19 has meant that our events have been cancelled. With our income hit hard, most of our small team were furloughed and our volunteers remained at home. This has had a significant effect on our operations.

“I am extremely proud of the Arnos Vale team, for what has been achieved to keep this magical, special place alive”  Elle said.

“I’m passionate about supporting this local community venue that is now going through tough times. Their income has been hit hard during the Coronavirus pandemic and now more than ever they are reliant on your support. Donations are welcome; they make a difference no matter their size”

Online showcase

This Christmas, Elle will be running an online showcase for her students. She’s raising money for Arnos Vale and she’d love your support. You can donate to her fundraising page here. The showcase will go live on Sunday 20^th December on the Elle Ashwell Youtube channel

If you’d like to learn how to sing your favourite song or perfect your singing technique you can get in touch with Elle through her website

Setting up your own fundraising event

If, like Elle you’re a keen supporter of Arnos Vale and would like to set up your own virtual fundraising event please visit our Christmas Appeal page and then click on the ‘Start Fundraising’ button.