Gemma Hinchliffe has always loved music and dancing from a young age and has fond memories of re-enacting The Sound of Music in the lounge with her sister. She remembers desperately hoping that the ‘Jim’ll Fix It’ programme would answer her letter, requesting to be ‘Julie Andrews for the day’ – they didn’t!
Gemma went on to study for a degree in music at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London where she was a principal singing student. After graduating, Gemma worked as a singing teacher, teaching children from primary to A level. She also formed a classical crossover trio who were fortunate to gain a recording contract with DECCA, Universal Music. This saw Gemma travel to the USA to write with songwriters in Nashville, tour the UK and enjoy lots of wonderful experiences which she feels so lucky to have experienced.
Before the birth of her son, William, in 2009, Gemma worked as a Product Manager for Warner Music. Wanting to make a change from the hustle and bustle and find a career which would fit around her new life as a Mum, Gemma discovered MAD Academy. After taking her son to a session and seeing how much he loved the class, Gemma too was hooked!
Gemma is passionate about children, music and dancing and is so excited to finally be able to combine her passions. Gemma believes strongly that music and dance can help a child’s development. She is a firm believer that children should have the opportunity to learn in a positive, fun and free spirited environment, a principal she brings to all her MAD Academy classes! Visit Gemma’s class timetable to find a suitable class.
Gemma’s Team
Kelly Doran
After building a career in the hustle and bustle of sales, Kelly Doran was looking for a change of direction. Once her three children were of school age, she felt the time was right to do something for herself. Performing arts has always had a big influence on Kelly. In her earlier days she took part in numerous pantomimes, musicals and productions of Shakespeare. She also studied modern dance and ballet.
Kelly loves being with children and is an active member of her local school PTA, often working closely with the pupils. She believes passionately that children should have fun while learning at the same time, a principle she brings to her MAD classes!
