12th July 2026 in insta pics

I thought it was time to introduce myself to you all – followers old and new! My name is Emma. I’m originally from Northern Ireland but now live in Midlothian with my husband, my two kids and my dog. I’m a classical soprano, so my job sometimes looks and sounds like this (or this). I learned to sew as a teenager (no photos of that!) but I abandoned it for a while. Three years ago, @sew_sleep_deprived encouraged me to start sewing again and I’ve been making all my clothes ever since. I love it because I can make unique garments that fit. When I’m not singing or sewing, I’ll be found swimming at the reservoir, or climbing (badly) at my local indoor bouldering wall.

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22nd June 2026 in insta pics

I love all the different hats I have to wear in my job – both literally and figuratively.

None fewer than the hats I wear for Edinburgh International Festival. I am excited to be the inaugural Associate Opera Artist with the amazing D and P department, headed up by @carodonald As such, I write and deliver education projects, having just completed a joyous run of workshops on Verdi’s ‘A Masked Ball’ which we delivered to 16 secondary schools in Edinburgh.

On Friday I was part of an incredible panel for a Discover Music session with senior students from all over Edinburgh, and got to hear the fabulous @nickybenedettiofficial play and talk to the students about her career.

I’m also extremely excited to join the star studded cast of Strauss’ Elektra as part of @edintfest 2026.

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8th June 2026 in insta pics

Me made May, part three

My favourite make of May was this @stylearc Belle Woven Dress.

Fabric from @1stforfabrics I love the shirring at the back – keeps it comfy!

And ice cream buttons!

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8th June 2026 in insta pics

Me Made May, part two

a trip to Glyndebourne in @closetcorepatterns Pauline;

a couple of colourful (!) self drafted dresses;

a bikini made from POD @minervadotcom fabric for a gorgeous swim at the Reservoir;

Jim overalls (again) with a top from the big four (can’t remember which one);

and matching mummy daughter outfits (self drafted for daughter!)

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17th May 2026 in insta pics

Me made May, part one

I’ve been a bit busy with work, so haven’t maybe posted as much as I might have. I started sewing because I couldn’t find clothes in the shops that fit me. It has been a game changer. Rather than trying to change my body to fit the clothes, I’m making the clothes to fit my body. I highly recommend it!!

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29th April 2026 in insta pics

My friend @leelivephotos took these photos last week and they deserve a spot on the grid

Being an open water swimmer, I wanted a photo to show my love of the water, and also to link in with a forthcoming recital programme. Lee is a fellow swimmer too, so we had a dry run in a field near our house, and then went to our regular swim spot at Glencorse Reservoir.

#singerswhoswim #openwatersinging #openwaterswimming #dielorelei

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25th April 2026 in insta pics

A glorious Good Friday concert singing Brahms’ German Requiem

…with the @ulsterorchestra @belfastphilchoir and @eivindgj at the Ulster Hall.

I love singing there – such a beautiful venue and an enthusiastic home crowd, including my mum and two of my brothers. Got to hear the wonderful @ioanapetcucolan play The Lark Ascending too – totally stunning.

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24th April 2026 in insta pics

March 2025 was a very busy one…

many miles clocked up on planes, trains and automobiles.

Bonus time with the nephew;

on tour with @operaupclose;

fab recital with the brilliant @jon_the_pianist;

a day with @tammy.daly.16;

St Patrick’s day in Blackpool;

a jump-in to do Verdi Requiem with @edmusicsociety;

a swim (or two) in Plymouth.

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