Articles and News

The disruption of choral activity due to the COVID-19 pandemic could have serious consequences in an important part of the arts industry.   It is feared that many singers will just not return to an activity which had been a long-term highlight in their week. However, with vision and a willingness to adapt to different ways […]

Organ Playing I have been doing regular daily organ practise and enjoying  the progress that this disciplined approach yields.  At first, repertoire that had been very familiar 30 years ago seemed unplayable, but my feet and fingers have been beaten into submission and ‘the little grey cells’ activated to achieve the necessary command to really

June would normally be a very busy period for me conducting a flurry of concerts throughout the month, accompanying recitals, leading workshops, adjudicating and examining, as well as teaching and preparing candidates for diploma exams. However, this year the lockdown has made the month devoid of live performance with others. In musical isolation I am

Into May and still without live concerts, recitals and teaching!  Also, my invitation to have tea with Her Majesty at Buckingham Palace on 12th May has been postponed to a later date. I think this period has given many of us time to reflect on important values,  and music has, and still is, playing a

In this strange period of ‘lockdown’ it is interesting to see how important music and the arts are now being viewed. Teaching I hope that all my students and their families are well and avoiding this dreadful coronavirus. It is however a time when we can find real enjoyment and comfort in our music.  So,

Teaching Several students are preparing for entrance auditions and choral scholarships to Conservatoires and Universities over this month and into the New Year. Preparations are generally very well ‘in place’ with repertoire items, but it is often the sight reading and ear tests that give the greatest anxiety. Always approach these aspects with confidence and