Biography
A York University graduate, I gained the CertRCO Organ Diploma in 2007, studying under Kevin Bowyer and Gerard Brooks at the St Giles International Organ School, London.
I have been a church musician for over 20 years playing and directing the choir in churches across the country. I am currently Organist and Choirmaster at St Andrew’s Church, Girton, and accompany for the Girton Community Choir
Since moving to Cambridge 5 years ago, I have been part of the local music network, playing in churches and college chapels including Queens’, Magdalene and Trinity Hall.
As a teacher of music theory and performance to all ages, including piano, organ and choral singing, I work hard to tailor-make my approach to each student. I also keep my professional development updated with the annual ABRSM teacher conference and choral conducting courses with Choral Music Experience Institute (CME) in London.
What people say
Here are some comments I have received from previous clients:
"Richard is an immensely talented musician. Everything from Church music, within all traditions, and as a concert Jazz Pianist. He also has a wide knowledge of traditional and modern liturgical set-ups within different styles of worship. I would, without a doubt recommend and commend him to Churches."
Revd Tim Harling, Chaplain and Fellow, Queens' College.
“Richard’s playing lends a tone of instant calm to a gathering from the moment one enters the church. His repertoire is broad and he is able to improvise through any unforeseen delays! His manner is always professional and he is pleasant to deal with.”
Revd Jon Canessa, curate, St Paul’s Cambridge
"The organ sings when you play it!"
James Barnard, Girton Churchwarden
"Richard has been wonderful to work with. His playing is assured and deeply musical, he accompanies congregational singing with ‘feel’ and understanding, and his voluntaries are wonderfully alive and contribute significantly to the sense of worship. Highly recommended." Revd Dr Paul Weston, tutor, Ridley Hall Cambridge and Director, Newbigin Institute “Richard’s playing can enrich a familiar hymn with a whole new palette of fresh colour. He is a consummate professional, seemingly cheerful and resourceful in any situation”
Revd Michael Beckett, vicar, St Paul’s Cambridge