They went to America thinking they might just enjoy it.
They came back as world champions.
And they’re about to take to the stage again, this time on home soil.
A group of women from Ashton-in-Makerfield, Milltown Sound Chorus, known as the Millies, shocked the world last year by becoming the first UK winners of the International Harmony Classic.
Milltown Sound Chorus is an a cappella barbershop choir, singing in four-part harmony without instruments. What began in 2009 with 17 women who simply loved to sing has grown into a 28-strong chorus, ranging in age from 15 to 68. They are united by friendship, community spirit, and a relentless dedication to performing at the highest level.
From Wigan to the world stage
Their journey to world champions started at the regional heat in Sheffield in May 2024. Winning that heat qualified them to compete internationally in Columbus, Ohio, at the Harmony Classic, a competition that has been running for 77 years and had never before been won by a UK chorus. Getting there was no small feat. The chorus spent 18 months fundraising just to make the trip possible, travelling across the Atlantic with no real expectation of winning.
In Ohio, the Millies performed a 15-minute entertainment package with a wedding theme, inspired by the many weddings among their members where they often sing for each other. Their set included Mr Blue Sky by Electric Light Orchestra, Next Time I Love by Linda Eder, Somebody To Love by Queen, and I Lived by OneRepublic. Every harmony and every stage moment showed exactly why they were crowned world champions.
Stella Macpherson, one of the founding members, reflected on that historic moment: “Our aim was just not to come bottom. We never expected to actually win. Hearing our name called for first place was absolutely unbelievable.”
She added: “We love being from Wigan and are so proud to represent it on the world stage. The support we’ve had has been incredible and it really drives us. Wigan should be proud of us, because we’re carrying the town with us every step of the way.”
Their Director also earned the Master Director title, awarded only to those achieving a top score and completing a rigorous certification programme.
Back on home turf
This May, the Millies return to regional competition in Manchester as reigning international champions. Competing at home brings a different kind of pressure, but also the thrill of showing their Wigan and Ashton community what world champions look like.
From local rehearsals to global recognition, this chorus of women has already made history. Now they are ready to prove that last year’s win was only the beginning.
What is barbershop singing?
Barbershop is a style of close harmony singing performed a cappella, meaning no instruments are used. Music is built from four vocal parts: lead, tenor, baritone, and bass. When perfectly combined, the chords ring in a way that feels almost electric.
The style traces its roots to late 19th century American barbershops, where people would harmonise while waiting for a haircut. Over time, it evolved into an internationally recognised artform, with highly skilled performances and demanding competitions.
Winning at the Harmony Classic is a huge achievement. It means performing under pressure, outscoring elite choruses from across the world, and delivering a flawless, theatrical show.
Milltown Sound Chorus did it once and now, on home soil, they are ready to do it all over again.
The Millies are truly fantastic, they’re not just world champions, they’re putting Wigan on the map and showing everyone just how brilliant people from our town can be.
If you’ve got a story, I’d love to hear from you. I want this to be FULL of all the amazing people that make Wigan shine… and what is better than you?
Please include:
• Who you are
• What you do
• Where you’re based
• When it started
• Why you do it
• 3 to 5 good quality photos (landscape, not portrait format, this is important)
Thank you. Claire x
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