Ian Harrold has been the Society’s conductor since 2004. He developed his interest in music while at King Edward’s School, Birmingham, largely through a close friendship with the late David Munrow. This interest continued through university at Merton College, Oxford, where several of his compositions, including an anthem for the College’s 700th anniversary, had their first airing. On starting work in London he joined the City of London Choir where, after a time, he found himself sitting next to a young tenor, Michael Power. Their friendship led to the fulfilment of a dream: to sing in a Cathedral Choir. Ian was an Alto Lay Clerk at Gloucester Cathedral from 1998 to 2003.

Ian took up the bassoon as part of his teaching career and, though managing to become Principal Bassoon (and Associate Conductor) with the Hertford Symphony Orchestra, singing has remained his first love as a performer.

Composition has always been an important part of his musical life; he is currently working on Opus 148 (The Great O Antiphons). One of his orchestral works has been performed in the Royal Festival Hall and another at the Royal Albert Hall. Tyndale Choral Society has performed his Jubilate and, in 2005, sang his symphonic-style arrangement of the songs of Richard Rodgers. Visit IH Music to browse Ian’s current catalogue.

As the above might indicate, his musical tastes are wide: from early music to jazz and music for the theatre. This, he suggests, is reflected in his composition which may be called eclectic or derivative, according to taste! It is underpinned by a knowledge and love of the great choral repertory from Monteverdi, Purcell and Handel to (just about) Finzi and Britten! His aim in choosing repertoire for the Society is to find a balance between the familiar and the fresh, to broaden horizons and, above all, make singing fun!