Conductors
Below can be found a list of eminent conductors that Craig has had the pleasure of collaborating and working with over the years.
Further information on each can be found by clicking on the links to their own sites, where available.
Further information on various projects involving these artists can also be found in the projects section of this site
Further information on each can be found by clicking on the links to their own sites, where available.
Further information on various projects involving these artists can also be found in the projects section of this site
Owain Arwel Hughes CBE
"The best performance of Belshazzar's Feast I've ever heard" Sir William Walton OM
Owain Arwel Hughes has conducted and recorded with many of the world's leading orchestras. Among his titles have been Associate Conductor of the Philharmonia Orchestra and Principal Associate Conductor of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London; Associate Conductor of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales; Principal Conductor of the Aalborg Symphony Orchestra, Denmark; Principal Guest Conductor of the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra, South Africa; and Musical Director of the National Youth Orchestra of Wales.
Arwel Hughes is a noted conductor of large scale choral works (“... this Proms performance brought out the sheer beauty of the music [Dream of Gerontius], the orchestral virtuosity and Elgar’s dexterity with the sung word. At times intimate, at times dazzling, the powerful yet coolly-controlled combination of orchestra and choirs created an absorbing performance.” Mike Smith – Western Mail) and was a most successful Principal Conductor of the world famous Huddersfield Choral Society.
He is Musical Director of Camerata Wales and Founder and Artistic Director of the Cardiff Welsh Proms (“Once again, it was the maestro himself, Owain Arwel Hughes, who inspired this mighty ensemble [the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra] to create such a magnificent sound .... Drawing the best out of the instrumentalists on stage, Hughes produced a truly awesome performance [Tchaikovsky, 6th Symphony, the Pathetique].” Dean Powell – Western Mail). He also works with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Philharmonia Orchestra, Orchestre National de Lille, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, BBC National Orchestra of Wales and BBC Concert Orchestra, the Cape Philharmonic and Aalborg Symphony orchestras amongst several others (“Owain Arwel Hughes was back at the Hallé Proms ..... His programmes are carefully constructed so that each item contrasts intriguingly with its neighbours, and there are some big finishes. Above all, he feels his music, rather than just directing it – which you can’t say of everyone – and that brings its own committed response.” Robert Beale – Manchester Evening News).
Owain Arwel Hughes has developed an enormous breadth of repertoire. This is reflected in the huge body of work shown in his many recordings for labels including BIS, EMI, cpo, Phillips, Quartz, ASV, Warner, Da Capo, Danacord and Carlton Classics ranging from the complete orchestral, concerto and choral works of Vagn Holmboe, the symphonies and overtures of Brahms, symphonies and piano concertos by Rachmaninov (“Owain Arwel Hughes proves a sympathetic accompanist [to Noriko Ogawa], bringing a commendable freshness to both works with his Malmö Symphony Orchestra forces.” Barry Millington – The Times), Tchaikovsky’s piano and orchestra works, Borressen, Schnittke, Handel, Delius, Elgar, Holst, Walton, a CD of music by his father (Arwel Hughes), Verdi, Fanshawe, Koppell, Prokoviev, Saint-Saens, Sibelius, Patterson, Sullivan and Nordby with orchestras including the London Philharmonic (“..... Arwel Hughes at his most uninhibited and the LPO at their most spontaneous.” AJ Sicluna – Echo), Philharmonia Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Hallé, Danish National Radio SO, Stuttgart Philharmoniker, BBC Concert Orchestra, Orchestre National de Lille, Aalborg Symphony Orchestra, Camerata Wales and Cape Philharmonic during which he has received two prestigious Gold Discs. He also conducted the world premiere of Schnittke’s huge choral work “Nagasaki” with his Cape Philharmonic forces and included Symphony “0” on the resulting CD with the orchestra.
Owain Arwel Hughes is fiercely proud of his Welsh heritage and Wales’ reputation as a Land of Song. He is an instinctive accompanist of the human voice with a long line of distinguished singers who have valued having him on the podium alongside them. These include Dame Janet Baker, Bryn Terfel, John Tomlinson, Thomas Allen, Philip Langridge, Anthony Rolfe Johnson, Dame Gwyneth Jones, Solie Isokoski, Felicity Lott, Dennis O’Neil, Robert Tear, Benjamin Luxon, Rebecca Evans, Sir Geraint Evans, Inger Dam Jensen, John Shirley-Quirk, Alice Coote and Lesley Garrett.
A natural interest in his native Wales led him to found the Cardiff Welsh Proms in 1986 which, based in the city’s magnificent St David’s Hall and with his vision and commitment, quickly became one of the UK’s major annual summer music festivals. Similarly his belief in forging a future for young Welsh musicians led him to agree to become Music Director of The National Youth Orchestra of Wales, the first orchestra of its kind in the world.
Arwel Hughes’ contribution to music is widely recognised and marked with honorary doctorates and fellowships at nine Universities and Music Conservatoires. He was awarded the OBE in recognition of his services to music and charitable work, and further honoured in January 2009 when he received the CBE. In 2014 Owain was made Professor of Performance to the University of Wales Trinity St. David.
Craig worked closely with Owain Arwel Hughes over a five year period as Director of Development to leading freelance chamber orchestra Camerata Wales and as General Manager of the Welsh Proms
Owain Arwel Hughes has conducted and recorded with many of the world's leading orchestras. Among his titles have been Associate Conductor of the Philharmonia Orchestra and Principal Associate Conductor of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London; Associate Conductor of the BBC National Orchestra of Wales; Principal Conductor of the Aalborg Symphony Orchestra, Denmark; Principal Guest Conductor of the Cape Philharmonic Orchestra, South Africa; and Musical Director of the National Youth Orchestra of Wales.
Arwel Hughes is a noted conductor of large scale choral works (“... this Proms performance brought out the sheer beauty of the music [Dream of Gerontius], the orchestral virtuosity and Elgar’s dexterity with the sung word. At times intimate, at times dazzling, the powerful yet coolly-controlled combination of orchestra and choirs created an absorbing performance.” Mike Smith – Western Mail) and was a most successful Principal Conductor of the world famous Huddersfield Choral Society.
He is Musical Director of Camerata Wales and Founder and Artistic Director of the Cardiff Welsh Proms (“Once again, it was the maestro himself, Owain Arwel Hughes, who inspired this mighty ensemble [the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra] to create such a magnificent sound .... Drawing the best out of the instrumentalists on stage, Hughes produced a truly awesome performance [Tchaikovsky, 6th Symphony, the Pathetique].” Dean Powell – Western Mail). He also works with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Philharmonia Orchestra, Orchestre National de Lille, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, BBC National Orchestra of Wales and BBC Concert Orchestra, the Cape Philharmonic and Aalborg Symphony orchestras amongst several others (“Owain Arwel Hughes was back at the Hallé Proms ..... His programmes are carefully constructed so that each item contrasts intriguingly with its neighbours, and there are some big finishes. Above all, he feels his music, rather than just directing it – which you can’t say of everyone – and that brings its own committed response.” Robert Beale – Manchester Evening News).
Owain Arwel Hughes has developed an enormous breadth of repertoire. This is reflected in the huge body of work shown in his many recordings for labels including BIS, EMI, cpo, Phillips, Quartz, ASV, Warner, Da Capo, Danacord and Carlton Classics ranging from the complete orchestral, concerto and choral works of Vagn Holmboe, the symphonies and overtures of Brahms, symphonies and piano concertos by Rachmaninov (“Owain Arwel Hughes proves a sympathetic accompanist [to Noriko Ogawa], bringing a commendable freshness to both works with his Malmö Symphony Orchestra forces.” Barry Millington – The Times), Tchaikovsky’s piano and orchestra works, Borressen, Schnittke, Handel, Delius, Elgar, Holst, Walton, a CD of music by his father (Arwel Hughes), Verdi, Fanshawe, Koppell, Prokoviev, Saint-Saens, Sibelius, Patterson, Sullivan and Nordby with orchestras including the London Philharmonic (“..... Arwel Hughes at his most uninhibited and the LPO at their most spontaneous.” AJ Sicluna – Echo), Philharmonia Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Hallé, Danish National Radio SO, Stuttgart Philharmoniker, BBC Concert Orchestra, Orchestre National de Lille, Aalborg Symphony Orchestra, Camerata Wales and Cape Philharmonic during which he has received two prestigious Gold Discs. He also conducted the world premiere of Schnittke’s huge choral work “Nagasaki” with his Cape Philharmonic forces and included Symphony “0” on the resulting CD with the orchestra.
Owain Arwel Hughes is fiercely proud of his Welsh heritage and Wales’ reputation as a Land of Song. He is an instinctive accompanist of the human voice with a long line of distinguished singers who have valued having him on the podium alongside them. These include Dame Janet Baker, Bryn Terfel, John Tomlinson, Thomas Allen, Philip Langridge, Anthony Rolfe Johnson, Dame Gwyneth Jones, Solie Isokoski, Felicity Lott, Dennis O’Neil, Robert Tear, Benjamin Luxon, Rebecca Evans, Sir Geraint Evans, Inger Dam Jensen, John Shirley-Quirk, Alice Coote and Lesley Garrett.
A natural interest in his native Wales led him to found the Cardiff Welsh Proms in 1986 which, based in the city’s magnificent St David’s Hall and with his vision and commitment, quickly became one of the UK’s major annual summer music festivals. Similarly his belief in forging a future for young Welsh musicians led him to agree to become Music Director of The National Youth Orchestra of Wales, the first orchestra of its kind in the world.
Arwel Hughes’ contribution to music is widely recognised and marked with honorary doctorates and fellowships at nine Universities and Music Conservatoires. He was awarded the OBE in recognition of his services to music and charitable work, and further honoured in January 2009 when he received the CBE. In 2014 Owain was made Professor of Performance to the University of Wales Trinity St. David.
Craig worked closely with Owain Arwel Hughes over a five year period as Director of Development to leading freelance chamber orchestra Camerata Wales and as General Manager of the Welsh Proms
John Asquith
Longstanding Musical Director of Rhondda's Cor Meibion Morlais and linguistic coach to the Welsh National Opera Company, Craig and John have collaborated on numerous projects and performances over the years, most notably the Morlais' tour to Canada in 2006, visits to Rhondda Cynon Taf of the Don Cossack State Dance Company, Russian Cossack State Dance Company and Yurlov Russian State Academic Choir, plus numerous concerts for the Mayor of Rhondda Cynon Taf, including the incredibly successful 'Night at the Opera' of 2008 and 2015 Rhondda Cynon Taf Festival of Remembrance. Craig and John also collaborated together with Laszlo Irinyi of Concert Masters International, Hungary, on the highly successful 2011/2012 project and Karl Jenkins Commission "Beirdd Cymru: The Bards of Wales".
Further information on John and Cor Meibion Morlais can be found at www.cor-meibion-morlais.org.uk
Further information on John and Cor Meibion Morlais can be found at www.cor-meibion-morlais.org.uk
Major Denis Burton
Former Director of Music of the Band of Her Majesty's Grenadier Guards, Major Burton is now Director of Music of the Band of the Royal Welsh. Craig and Denis have collaborated on a number of occasions, most notably on the 60th anniversary of VE Day commemorative performance in 2006, and the visit of the Band of the Royal Welsh to the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo in 2009
Major Burton is one of the leading arrangers of music for military band, and now Principal Music Arranger of the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo.
Further information on the Major and many of his published works for military band can be found at www.safe-music.co.uk
Major Burton is one of the leading arrangers of music for military band, and now Principal Music Arranger of the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo.
Further information on the Major and many of his published works for military band can be found at www.safe-music.co.uk
Dr. Robert Childs
Euphonium virtuoso and leading brass band conductor Robert was the euphonium and baritone tutor for the full seven years Craig was a member of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales.
In 2001 Craig shared the stage with Robert at the 2001 Welsh Brass Arts Festival where he guest conducted the Leyland Band at the inaugural Festival event and has collaborated with him on a number of ventures since, including currently the North American Brass Band Summer School and various projects with the Grimethorpe Colliery Band
Further information on Robert can be found at his own website
www.robert-childs.co.uk
In 2001 Craig shared the stage with Robert at the 2001 Welsh Brass Arts Festival where he guest conducted the Leyland Band at the inaugural Festival event and has collaborated with him on a number of ventures since, including currently the North American Brass Band Summer School and various projects with the Grimethorpe Colliery Band
Further information on Robert can be found at his own website
www.robert-childs.co.uk
Dr. Nicholas Childs
Craig shared the stage with Nicholas Childs at the 2002 Welsh Brass Arts Festival in a joint performance between the famous Black Dyke Band and Parc & Dare. At the event Nicholas conducted the premiere of Edward Gregson's The Sword & the Crown, specially commissioned by Craig and the Festival for the performance
Further information on Nicholas and Black Dyke can be found at www.blackdykeband.co.uk
Further information on Nicholas and Black Dyke can be found at www.blackdykeband.co.uk
Gerry Cornelius
Gerry was musical director for the 2008 Welsh National Opera project Carbon 12. Appearing regularly on concert platforms across the country Gerry has for the past four seasons remained on the music staff of Aldeburgh-Almeida opera productions and is also music director of the Hertford Symphony Orchestra
Further information on Gerry can be found at www.gerrycornelius.com
Further information on Gerry can be found at www.gerrycornelius.com
William F. "Bill" Eberts
Bill Eberts was Principal Director of Music and a core member of the production staff of the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo until his untimely passing in autumn 2013. Craig was fortunate enough to work closely with Bill at the Tattoo for well over a decade
Further information on the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo can be found at www.nstattoo.ca
Further information on the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo can be found at www.nstattoo.ca
Richard Evans
Richard Evans is one of the most colourful and charismatic conductors ever to grace the brass band world. The undisputed King of the Entertainments Contest, Richard has won the prestigious Brass In Concert title no less than eight times (1989, 1991, 1992, 1997 with Leyland, 2004, 2005 with Grimethorpe and 2006, 2007 with Brighouse & Rastrick), a record unsurpassed by any other conductor.
Craig has had the pleasure of working with Richard on a number of occasions, in a number of successful competition and concert performances, including the visit to the UK of the Senzoku Gakuen College Brass Band and 2015 NYBBS / NYBBGB commission of Paul Mealor's "The Heart of Hidden Flame".
Craig has had the pleasure of working with Richard on a number of occasions, in a number of successful competition and concert performances, including the visit to the UK of the Senzoku Gakuen College Brass Band and 2015 NYBBS / NYBBGB commission of Paul Mealor's "The Heart of Hidden Flame".
Herward Heidinger
Seit 2007 leitet Herward Heidinger, Jahrgang 1969, das Blasorchester sowie sämtliche Jugendorchester der Stadtkapelle Nürtingen. Zudem ist er als Lehrkraft an der Musik und Jugendkunstschule Nürtingen tätig.
Herward Heidinger studierte an den Musikhochschulen Klausenburg und Stuttgart Posaune, Dirigieren und Elementare Musikpädagogik.
Im Jahr 2008 übernahm er zudem das Amt des stellvertretenden Kreisverbandsdirigenten im Blasmusikverband Esslingen.
Craig has worked closely with Herward for a number of years through the partnership with the Stadtkapelle Nurtingen. Further information on the partnership can be found in the projects and collaborators sections of this site, or on the stadtkapelle's own website www.stadtkapelle-nurtingen.de
Herward Heidinger studierte an den Musikhochschulen Klausenburg und Stuttgart Posaune, Dirigieren und Elementare Musikpädagogik.
Im Jahr 2008 übernahm er zudem das Amt des stellvertretenden Kreisverbandsdirigenten im Blasmusikverband Esslingen.
Craig has worked closely with Herward for a number of years through the partnership with the Stadtkapelle Nurtingen. Further information on the partnership can be found in the projects and collaborators sections of this site, or on the stadtkapelle's own website www.stadtkapelle-nurtingen.de
Harald Hepner
Der musikalische Leiter des Stadtorchesters, Musikdirektor Harald Hepner studierte an den Musikhochschulen in Augsburg, München, Nürnberg und Maastricht die Fächer Instrumentalpädagogik ( bei Wolfgang Guggenberger), Chorleitung (bei Alfons Brandl, Singphoniker), Orchesterreife mit Hauptfach Horn (bei Professor Ralf Springmann, Sinfonieorchester des Bayrischen Rundfunks) und Orchesterdirigat (bei Professor Pierre Kuijpers, königliche Militärkapelle der Niederlande). Weitere Dirigierstudien bei Professor Robert Reynolds, Henk van Lijnshooten und Motti Miron vervollständigen seine Ausbildung.
Nach der langjährigen Leitung des großen Blasorchesters des Musikvereins Unlingen und der Musikschule Unlingen übernahm Harald Hepner im Jahr 1999 die künstlerische Leitung des Stadtorchesters Ravensburg. Bereits im Jahr 2000 wurde ihm der Titel des "Städtischen Musikdirektors" verliehen.
Neben seiner Tätigkeit beim Stadtorchester wirkt Harald Hepner bei der Musikschule Ravensburg e. V. als Fachleiter "Bläser", sowie als Lehrer für Horn und Ensemble. Außerdem leitet er das Bläservororchester sowie das Jugendblasorchester der Musikschule. Im Januar 2002 wurde er zur künstlerischen Leitung des Kreisverbandsjugendblasorchesters Ravensburg berufen.
Besondere Herausforderungen sieht MD Harald Hepner in der Zusammenführung von sinfonischem Blasorchester und Chor, sowie in der Aufführung original sinfonischer Blasmusik. Dem entsprechend erstreckt sich sein Repertoire über alle Genres der Blasmusikliteratur.
Craig has worked closely with Harald for a number of years through the partnership with the Stadtorchester Ravensburg. Further information on the partnership can be found in the projects and collaborators sections of this site, and at the stadtorchester's own website www.stadtorchester-ravensburg.de
Nach der langjährigen Leitung des großen Blasorchesters des Musikvereins Unlingen und der Musikschule Unlingen übernahm Harald Hepner im Jahr 1999 die künstlerische Leitung des Stadtorchesters Ravensburg. Bereits im Jahr 2000 wurde ihm der Titel des "Städtischen Musikdirektors" verliehen.
Neben seiner Tätigkeit beim Stadtorchester wirkt Harald Hepner bei der Musikschule Ravensburg e. V. als Fachleiter "Bläser", sowie als Lehrer für Horn und Ensemble. Außerdem leitet er das Bläservororchester sowie das Jugendblasorchester der Musikschule. Im Januar 2002 wurde er zur künstlerischen Leitung des Kreisverbandsjugendblasorchesters Ravensburg berufen.
Besondere Herausforderungen sieht MD Harald Hepner in der Zusammenführung von sinfonischem Blasorchester und Chor, sowie in der Aufführung original sinfonischer Blasmusik. Dem entsprechend erstreckt sich sein Repertoire über alle Genres der Blasmusikliteratur.
Craig has worked closely with Harald for a number of years through the partnership with the Stadtorchester Ravensburg. Further information on the partnership can be found in the projects and collaborators sections of this site, and at the stadtorchester's own website www.stadtorchester-ravensburg.de
David Hirst
Longstanding resident MD of the famous Brighouse & Rastrick Band, David is one of the most respected band conductors in the business working not only with Brighouse but also Black Dyke, Faireys, Fodens, Grimethorpe - the list is endless.
Craig had the pleasure of sharing the stage with David at the 2003 Welsh Brass Arts Festival where David directed the Brighouse & Rastrick Band, and also conducted the premiere performance of Dr Paul Mealor's Rhapsody On A Theme of Purcell, the work commissioned by Craig for the event.
Craig had the pleasure of sharing the stage with David at the 2003 Welsh Brass Arts Festival where David directed the Brighouse & Rastrick Band, and also conducted the premiere performance of Dr Paul Mealor's Rhapsody On A Theme of Purcell, the work commissioned by Craig for the event.
Professor David King
David was Craig's conducting tutor and mentor throughout his studies at the University of Salford. Widely regarded as one of the most dynamic figures in the world of brass, and with an enviable record of musical accomplishments and successes both as an instrumentalist and conductor, David is without doubt one of the most successful musicians in the field of brass music today.
David was Chair of Music, Performance at the University of Salford but has since returned to his native Australia. David maintains his connection to the UK however as Professional Conductor of the Brighouse & Rastrick Band.
Further information on David and the University can be found at www.salford.ac.uk
David was Chair of Music, Performance at the University of Salford but has since returned to his native Australia. David maintains his connection to the UK however as Professional Conductor of the Brighouse & Rastrick Band.
Further information on David and the University can be found at www.salford.ac.uk
Commander Jack McGuire
Conductor Emeritus of the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo, Commander Jack McGuire was Principal Director of Music and Arranger for the Tattoo from it's inception in 1979 until his retirement in 2006.
A Second World War veteran, Jack joined the band branch of the Canadian Forces in 1945, firstly as a bandsman and then Director of Music with a number of bands, latterly the Stadacona Navy Band, with whom he brought his distinguished career to a close in 1975. He thereafter became Director / Staff Officer of the National Band of the Naval Reserve until 1987, alongside his work with the Tattoo.
Jack was one of the foremost arrangers of combined and military band music in North America, and also composed a series of singular military marches, many of which are staples of repertoire across North America and wider today.
Further information on Commander McGuire and the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo can be found at the Tattoo website www.nstattoo.ca
A Second World War veteran, Jack joined the band branch of the Canadian Forces in 1945, firstly as a bandsman and then Director of Music with a number of bands, latterly the Stadacona Navy Band, with whom he brought his distinguished career to a close in 1975. He thereafter became Director / Staff Officer of the National Band of the Naval Reserve until 1987, alongside his work with the Tattoo.
Jack was one of the foremost arrangers of combined and military band music in North America, and also composed a series of singular military marches, many of which are staples of repertoire across North America and wider today.
Further information on Commander McGuire and the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo can be found at the Tattoo website www.nstattoo.ca
Paul Mealor
Described in the New York Times as, ‘one of the most important composers to have emerged in Welsh choral music since William Mathias… A real and original talent’, Paul Mealor’s music has rapidly entered the repertoire of choirs and singers around the world. His music has been described as having, ‘serene beauty, fastidious craftsmanship and architectural assuredness… Music of deep spiritual searching that always asks questions, offers answers and fills the listener with hope…’ His sacred motets, songs and cycles have been performed, broadcast and recorded by artists in the UK, USA and much further afield.
Born in St Asaph, North Wales, UK in 1975 Paul Mealor studied composition privately with John Pickard and read music at the University of York (1994-2002) studying composition with Nicola LeFanu and in Copenhagen with Hans Abrahamsen (1998-99). Since 2003 he has taught at the University of Aberdeen, where he is currently Reader in Composition and has held visiting professorships in composition at institutions in Scandinavia and the United States. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and in 2006 signed an exclusive publishing contract with the University of York Music Press Ltd
In early 2008, Mealor was appointed Principal Conductor of Con Anima Chamber Choir and also conducts the University of Aberdeen Choral Society and Symphony Orchestra.
On 29th April 2011, his motet Ubi Cantas, was used at the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. His Wherever You Are was then the 2011 Christmas Number One and a huge success for the Military Wives Choir
Mealor divides his time between homes in the North East of Scotland and North Wales - the landscape of both having a great effect on his music.
In 2003 Craig commissioned the premiere performance of Paul's Rhapsody On A Theme of Purcell, which was performed by the massed bands of Brighouse & Rastrick and Parc & Dare at the 2003 Welsh Brass Arts Festival. In 2012 Craig then featured Paul's "Wherever You Are" at the 2012 Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo, with a specially formed choir of military wives & girlfriends.
Craig and Paul then again worked together at the 2012 Making Music Conference at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, where they shared the stage of the Dora Stouzker Hall in the Making Music Conference concert "Jubilate!", premiering Paul's "Jubilate! Jubilee!" composed for the occasion of the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Craig has since collaborated with Paul on a number of projects, including the commissioning and premiere of his 2015 work for brass, "The Heart of Hidden Flame" with the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain, conducted by Bramwell Tovey, and National Youth Brass Band of Scotland, conducted by Richard Evans. Craig was then instrumental in a number of Mealor commissions from the Welsh Proms, including "Celtic Spirit" (2015), "The Shadows of War" (2016) and "Concerto for Euphonium" (2017).
Further information on Dr. Mealor can be found at his website www.paulmealor.com
Born in St Asaph, North Wales, UK in 1975 Paul Mealor studied composition privately with John Pickard and read music at the University of York (1994-2002) studying composition with Nicola LeFanu and in Copenhagen with Hans Abrahamsen (1998-99). Since 2003 he has taught at the University of Aberdeen, where he is currently Reader in Composition and has held visiting professorships in composition at institutions in Scandinavia and the United States. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and in 2006 signed an exclusive publishing contract with the University of York Music Press Ltd
In early 2008, Mealor was appointed Principal Conductor of Con Anima Chamber Choir and also conducts the University of Aberdeen Choral Society and Symphony Orchestra.
On 29th April 2011, his motet Ubi Cantas, was used at the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton. His Wherever You Are was then the 2011 Christmas Number One and a huge success for the Military Wives Choir
Mealor divides his time between homes in the North East of Scotland and North Wales - the landscape of both having a great effect on his music.
In 2003 Craig commissioned the premiere performance of Paul's Rhapsody On A Theme of Purcell, which was performed by the massed bands of Brighouse & Rastrick and Parc & Dare at the 2003 Welsh Brass Arts Festival. In 2012 Craig then featured Paul's "Wherever You Are" at the 2012 Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo, with a specially formed choir of military wives & girlfriends.
Craig and Paul then again worked together at the 2012 Making Music Conference at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, where they shared the stage of the Dora Stouzker Hall in the Making Music Conference concert "Jubilate!", premiering Paul's "Jubilate! Jubilee!" composed for the occasion of the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
Craig has since collaborated with Paul on a number of projects, including the commissioning and premiere of his 2015 work for brass, "The Heart of Hidden Flame" with the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain, conducted by Bramwell Tovey, and National Youth Brass Band of Scotland, conducted by Richard Evans. Craig was then instrumental in a number of Mealor commissions from the Welsh Proms, including "Celtic Spirit" (2015), "The Shadows of War" (2016) and "Concerto for Euphonium" (2017).
Further information on Dr. Mealor can be found at his website www.paulmealor.com
Dr. Roy Newsome
Alongside Professor David King, Dr. Roy Newsome was Craig's tutor throughout his studies at the University of Salford. Research Fellow and Conductor Laureate to the University, Roy was also President of the National Association of Brass Band Conductors, an Executive Member of the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators and Musical Advisor to the Brass In Concert Championships.
Composer, arranger and former BBC radio presenter, Roy adjudicated at virtually every major brass band competition in the world and held conducting appointments with most of the top brass bands, most notably with Black Dyke, Fairey Engineering, Besses of the Barn and Sun Life.
Roy conducted 5 winning performances at the British Open (with four different bands) and also won the National Brass Championships at the Royal Albert Hall. He wrote five books on brass band history and remained one of the leading figures in band education and the brass band world until his passing in 2011.
In addition to working with Dr. Newsome at university, Craig also invited Roy to feature in the first Welsh Brass Arts Festival in 2001. At the event Roy directed the massed bands of Leyland and Parc & Dare in the premiere performance of his own arrangement of Highlights from Carmina Burana, and also a revision of his superb arrangement of the Witches Sabbath from Berlioz' Symphonie Fantastique, both of which were commissioned by Craig and the festival.
Composer, arranger and former BBC radio presenter, Roy adjudicated at virtually every major brass band competition in the world and held conducting appointments with most of the top brass bands, most notably with Black Dyke, Fairey Engineering, Besses of the Barn and Sun Life.
Roy conducted 5 winning performances at the British Open (with four different bands) and also won the National Brass Championships at the Royal Albert Hall. He wrote five books on brass band history and remained one of the leading figures in band education and the brass band world until his passing in 2011.
In addition to working with Dr. Newsome at university, Craig also invited Roy to feature in the first Welsh Brass Arts Festival in 2001. At the event Roy directed the massed bands of Leyland and Parc & Dare in the premiere performance of his own arrangement of Highlights from Carmina Burana, and also a revision of his superb arrangement of the Witches Sabbath from Berlioz' Symphonie Fantastique, both of which were commissioned by Craig and the festival.
Robin Osterley
Robin worked with Robin at Making Music, (formerly known as the National Federation of Music Societies), the UK's largest association of amateur musical organisations, where Robin was Chief Executive and Craig Wales Development Manager.
Robin has been involved in music all his life, first as amateur performer, and then, since 1993, in arts management. Prior to moving into the music business, he worked in the computer industry, where he was marketing manager with ICL. Before running Making Music, he worked as Marketing Manager for the Orchestra of St John's Smith Square, and was Managing Director of a small classical record label.
Making Music offers a range of services to its 2150 members, ranging from basic assistance with repertoire, legal and administrative advice, through to lobbying and advocacy. In his 7 years with the organisation, Robin has seen it grow to some 28 full and part-time staff with a turnover of nearly £1million.
Since 2000 Robin has been Chairman of the National Music Council, the country's leading forum for senior personnel from the music industries. In this capacity he has been heavily involved in activities associated with music education and in particular, the recent initiative to set up a Sector Skills Council for the Creative and Cultural Industries.
Robin is a member of the National Music Education Forum and a well-respected lobbyist for music in education generally. He still finds time to conduct the Stevenage Choral Society, and occasionally sings with the London Symphony Chorus. Working with Robin at Making Music from 2010, Craig also shared the stage with his Chief Executive at the 2012 Making Music conference when they co-conducted, along with Paul Mealor, the 2012 conference concert 'Jubilate' at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama's Dora Stouzker Hall
Robin has been involved in music all his life, first as amateur performer, and then, since 1993, in arts management. Prior to moving into the music business, he worked in the computer industry, where he was marketing manager with ICL. Before running Making Music, he worked as Marketing Manager for the Orchestra of St John's Smith Square, and was Managing Director of a small classical record label.
Making Music offers a range of services to its 2150 members, ranging from basic assistance with repertoire, legal and administrative advice, through to lobbying and advocacy. In his 7 years with the organisation, Robin has seen it grow to some 28 full and part-time staff with a turnover of nearly £1million.
Since 2000 Robin has been Chairman of the National Music Council, the country's leading forum for senior personnel from the music industries. In this capacity he has been heavily involved in activities associated with music education and in particular, the recent initiative to set up a Sector Skills Council for the Creative and Cultural Industries.
Robin is a member of the National Music Education Forum and a well-respected lobbyist for music in education generally. He still finds time to conduct the Stevenage Choral Society, and occasionally sings with the London Symphony Chorus. Working with Robin at Making Music from 2010, Craig also shared the stage with his Chief Executive at the 2012 Making Music conference when they co-conducted, along with Paul Mealor, the 2012 conference concert 'Jubilate' at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama's Dora Stouzker Hall
Major Peter Parkes
Major Peter Parkes was one of the most successful band conductors of all time. Former Director of Music of the Band of Her Majesty's Grenadier Guards, Major Parkes was associated with numerous top Championship Section bands including Grimethorpe, Williams Fairey, Desford and of course Black Dyke. He made his debut appearance at the National Finals in 1975 with a victory directing the John Foster Black Dyke Mills Band, who went on to achieve a hat trick of wins in the contest under his baton in successive years - the first two victories by a three point margin, and the third by a clear five points.
Following on from that The Major won the title a further six times, and in his 26 appearances notched up 7 wins, 7 runners up, 2 third prizes and 4 sixth prizes.
Craig was fortunate to work with Major Parkes in preparation for the National Championships at the Royal Albert Hall in 2006, the Major's final appearance at the event.
Following on from that The Major won the title a further six times, and in his 26 appearances notched up 7 wins, 7 runners up, 2 third prizes and 4 sixth prizes.
Craig was fortunate to work with Major Parkes in preparation for the National Championships at the Royal Albert Hall in 2006, the Major's final appearance at the event.
Leigh Phillips
Leigh is an award-winning theatre and film composer/ orchestrator with numerous credits to his name. In 1998 he became one of publishing house Wright & Round LTD's youngest best-selling arrangers and has since gone on to produce many exciting and memorable scores for animation, short features, documentaries, theatrical productions, television promos and feature film.
In 2004 Leigh undertook a ten month project for composer John Ottman (Superman Returns); adapting, reconstructing and orchestrating the score from Bryan Singer's dark thriller Public Access from the composer's only source material, the original synthesized audio recordings. At the start of the following year, Leigh collaborated with Grammy-Award winning composer Joe Harnell, compiling and adapting his music from the TV series 'V' into a three-movement suite for orchestra & chorus. In July 2006, Leigh was presented with the Goldsmith Award for Best Achievement in European Audio Visual Music (free creation) at the International Film Music Conference in Ubeda, Spain, for his score from The Jungle Book. These were the first awards to be given in honour of the legendary composer Jerry Goldsmith.
Leigh continues to work in both fim and the live dramatic arts; included in his list of stage projects are several collaborations with acclaimed theatre director Nick Evans (Billy Elliot: The Musical), providing original music for the plays Coriolanus, Our Country's Good and the previously mentioned Jungle Book.
In addition to these projects Leigh is actively involved in the reconstruction of classic film scores - resurrecting lost film-music greats for concert performance. His credits in this field include Omen III: The Final Conflict, Damien: Omen II, Medicine Man, Hollowman (all Jerry Goldsmith), Raise the Titanic (John Barry),and Santa Claus the Movie (Henry Mancini). Leigh's music has been performed by ensembles such as The Halle Orchestra, The Golden State Pops Orchestra and The City of Prague Philharmonic. He has recently completed several arrangements for Silva Screen Records forthcoming Film Music 2008 CD, on which he also acted as an additional synth programmer, and is currently involved with Tadlow Music's reconstruction of Ernest Gold's Oscar-winning score 'Exodus'.
Craig worked with Leigh on the 2006 film and live music project Brass Tracks, further information on which can be found in the projects section of this site, and again performed a number of Leigh's works at the 2012 Welsh Open Entertainments Championships. Further information on Leigh and his ongoing work can be found at http://www.myspace.com/reelmusic
In 2004 Leigh undertook a ten month project for composer John Ottman (Superman Returns); adapting, reconstructing and orchestrating the score from Bryan Singer's dark thriller Public Access from the composer's only source material, the original synthesized audio recordings. At the start of the following year, Leigh collaborated with Grammy-Award winning composer Joe Harnell, compiling and adapting his music from the TV series 'V' into a three-movement suite for orchestra & chorus. In July 2006, Leigh was presented with the Goldsmith Award for Best Achievement in European Audio Visual Music (free creation) at the International Film Music Conference in Ubeda, Spain, for his score from The Jungle Book. These were the first awards to be given in honour of the legendary composer Jerry Goldsmith.
Leigh continues to work in both fim and the live dramatic arts; included in his list of stage projects are several collaborations with acclaimed theatre director Nick Evans (Billy Elliot: The Musical), providing original music for the plays Coriolanus, Our Country's Good and the previously mentioned Jungle Book.
In addition to these projects Leigh is actively involved in the reconstruction of classic film scores - resurrecting lost film-music greats for concert performance. His credits in this field include Omen III: The Final Conflict, Damien: Omen II, Medicine Man, Hollowman (all Jerry Goldsmith), Raise the Titanic (John Barry),and Santa Claus the Movie (Henry Mancini). Leigh's music has been performed by ensembles such as The Halle Orchestra, The Golden State Pops Orchestra and The City of Prague Philharmonic. He has recently completed several arrangements for Silva Screen Records forthcoming Film Music 2008 CD, on which he also acted as an additional synth programmer, and is currently involved with Tadlow Music's reconstruction of Ernest Gold's Oscar-winning score 'Exodus'.
Craig worked with Leigh on the 2006 film and live music project Brass Tracks, further information on which can be found in the projects section of this site, and again performed a number of Leigh's works at the 2012 Welsh Open Entertainments Championships. Further information on Leigh and his ongoing work can be found at http://www.myspace.com/reelmusic
Tim Rhys Evans
Musical Director of Welsh National Youth Opera, associate conductor of the National Youth Choirs of Wales and Great Britain, and national chorus master of Welsh National Opera, Tim is perhaps best known as conductor and driving force behind BBC Last Choir Standing winners and leading male choir Only Men Aloud.
Craig has worked with Tim on a number of occasions including the 2006/07 project Electric Brass (with Only Men Aloud), and the 2008 projects The Planets (with Serendipity) and Carbon 12 (with Welsh National Opera).
Further information on Tim and Only Men Aloud can be found at www.onlymenaloud.com
Craig has worked with Tim on a number of occasions including the 2006/07 project Electric Brass (with Only Men Aloud), and the 2008 projects The Planets (with Serendipity) and Carbon 12 (with Welsh National Opera).
Further information on Tim and Only Men Aloud can be found at www.onlymenaloud.com
Carlo Rizzi
One of the foremost conductors of opera, Carlo Rizzi studied music at the Milan Conservatory. He was later a conducting student of Vladimir Delman, in Bologna, and with Franco Ferrara in Siena. His opera conducting debut was in 1982, with Donizetti's L'ajo nell'imbarazza, and in 1985, he won the first Toscanini Conductor's Competition in Parma.
Rizzi made his UK conducting debut at the 1988 Buxton Festival with Donizetti's Torquato Tasso, and subsequently conducted productions at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden and with Opera North. In August 1992, he became music director of Welsh National Opera (WNO), and served in the post through to 2001 - he also learned to speak Welsh during his tenure. In 2004, following the sudden resignation of Rizzi's successor Tugan Sokhiev, Rizzi returned as WNO's music director, which was expected to be initially for a period of 2 years, but he remained in the post through to 2007.
Craig worked with Carlo on the maestro's final project with WNO, Errollyn Wallen's "Carbon 12", further information on which can be found in the projects section of this site
Rizzi made his UK conducting debut at the 1988 Buxton Festival with Donizetti's Torquato Tasso, and subsequently conducted productions at the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden and with Opera North. In August 1992, he became music director of Welsh National Opera (WNO), and served in the post through to 2001 - he also learned to speak Welsh during his tenure. In 2004, following the sudden resignation of Rizzi's successor Tugan Sokhiev, Rizzi returned as WNO's music director, which was expected to be initially for a period of 2 years, but he remained in the post through to 2007.
Craig worked with Carlo on the maestro's final project with WNO, Errollyn Wallen's "Carbon 12", further information on which can be found in the projects section of this site
Stephen Roberts
Stephen Roberts is a British composer, arranger, conductor and teacher, with a particular reputation in brass circles. His first musical studies were with composer Sir Harrison Birtwistle, who encouraged him to take up the horn. He then studied at the Royal College of Music with hornist Alan Civil and gained a PhD in composition at the University of Birmingham.
For twenty years he was the hornist with the Fine Arts Brass Ensemble, with whom he gave over two thousand concerts and broadcasts in sixty countries. He was also responsible for arranging much of the group’s repertoire, which is now played and recorded by ensembles around the world. His repertoire of arrangements has been featured on over a hundred CD recordings.
During his performing career Roberts also had the distinction of playing with nearly all of the UK’s top orchestras, from the BBC Big Band to the London Symphony, as well as hundreds of commercial recording sessions.
His involvement with brass bands began in 1980, when he became Musical Director of the Jones & Crossland Band, enjoying exceptional success in contests. He subsequently became MD of the Desford Colliery Band, with whom he is still associated as a guest conductor. He has also been a guest conductor with just about all the top bands in the UK and his arrangements for brass band are now played worldwide. Roberts’ version of Holst’s Planets Suite (recorded by the Black Dyke Band) was chosen for the British Open Brass Band Championship of 2003, at which he was one of the adjudicators.
Recently, Roberts composed and conducted the theme and incidental music for the six-part Carlton TV series “The Real Brassed Off” featuring the Desford Colliery Brass Band. This was made into a feature album by EMI Records.
Roberts is also developing a reputation as a composer of orchestral and wind band music. Recent works for the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the Britten Sinfonia, the Kosei Wind Band and others have been broadcast on BBC Radio and he is currently writing a large-scale orchestral work for the BBC National Orchestra of Wales (to feature the orchestra’s brass section) for 2006.
In 2002 Roberts was appointed Professor of Music at the Royal Military School of Music, London, and he has also held other academic positions with the University of Birmingham (as lecturer in conducting, composition & orchestration) and Birmingham Conservatoire (as professor of horn). In 2004 Roberts was appointed Associate Conductor of the English Symphony Orchestra and he also undertakes conducting engagements in Europe, most recently at the Zurich Festival, Switzerland, with the Zurich Chamber Orchestra.
Craig worked with Stephen on the 2006 NSBA Festival in Sandwell, West Midlands, the 2007 project World Dances, and the 2008 project The Planets. Further information on all of these can be found in the projects section of this site, while further information on Stephen and his considerable output can be found at www.tanglewindmusic.com
For twenty years he was the hornist with the Fine Arts Brass Ensemble, with whom he gave over two thousand concerts and broadcasts in sixty countries. He was also responsible for arranging much of the group’s repertoire, which is now played and recorded by ensembles around the world. His repertoire of arrangements has been featured on over a hundred CD recordings.
During his performing career Roberts also had the distinction of playing with nearly all of the UK’s top orchestras, from the BBC Big Band to the London Symphony, as well as hundreds of commercial recording sessions.
His involvement with brass bands began in 1980, when he became Musical Director of the Jones & Crossland Band, enjoying exceptional success in contests. He subsequently became MD of the Desford Colliery Band, with whom he is still associated as a guest conductor. He has also been a guest conductor with just about all the top bands in the UK and his arrangements for brass band are now played worldwide. Roberts’ version of Holst’s Planets Suite (recorded by the Black Dyke Band) was chosen for the British Open Brass Band Championship of 2003, at which he was one of the adjudicators.
Recently, Roberts composed and conducted the theme and incidental music for the six-part Carlton TV series “The Real Brassed Off” featuring the Desford Colliery Brass Band. This was made into a feature album by EMI Records.
Roberts is also developing a reputation as a composer of orchestral and wind band music. Recent works for the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the Britten Sinfonia, the Kosei Wind Band and others have been broadcast on BBC Radio and he is currently writing a large-scale orchestral work for the BBC National Orchestra of Wales (to feature the orchestra’s brass section) for 2006.
In 2002 Roberts was appointed Professor of Music at the Royal Military School of Music, London, and he has also held other academic positions with the University of Birmingham (as lecturer in conducting, composition & orchestration) and Birmingham Conservatoire (as professor of horn). In 2004 Roberts was appointed Associate Conductor of the English Symphony Orchestra and he also undertakes conducting engagements in Europe, most recently at the Zurich Festival, Switzerland, with the Zurich Chamber Orchestra.
Craig worked with Stephen on the 2006 NSBA Festival in Sandwell, West Midlands, the 2007 project World Dances, and the 2008 project The Planets. Further information on all of these can be found in the projects section of this site, while further information on Stephen and his considerable output can be found at www.tanglewindmusic.com
James Watson
Craig was fortunate enough to play under legendary trumpet soloist James Watson as a member of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales between 1997 and 2001, the entire period James was Artistic Director. Craig also played under James at the Canford School of Music, and in concert with the famous Black Dyke Band, under James' baton, at Manchester's Bridgewater Hall in 2000.
Former principal trumpet of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the Royal Opera House, London Sinfonia and Philip Jones Brass Ensemble, James was Craig's first choice as featured soloist of the inaugural Welsh Brass Arts Festival in 2001. At the event James premiered Andrew Powell's 'Concerto Melyncoch' for solo trumpet and brass band, which had been commissioned especially for him by Craig for the occasion. Craig conducted that first performance, in the presence of the composer, and also shared the stage with James in performances of the Goedicke Concert Etude, Joy Webb's 'Share My Yoke' and a four piece Ted Heath Big Band Set.
An internationally renowned performer, conductor and tutor James was Head of Brass at London's prestigious Royal Academy of Music until his sudden and untimely death at the age of 59 in February 2011. He remains sorely missed throughout the musical world.
Former principal trumpet of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, the Royal Opera House, London Sinfonia and Philip Jones Brass Ensemble, James was Craig's first choice as featured soloist of the inaugural Welsh Brass Arts Festival in 2001. At the event James premiered Andrew Powell's 'Concerto Melyncoch' for solo trumpet and brass band, which had been commissioned especially for him by Craig for the occasion. Craig conducted that first performance, in the presence of the composer, and also shared the stage with James in performances of the Goedicke Concert Etude, Joy Webb's 'Share My Yoke' and a four piece Ted Heath Big Band Set.
An internationally renowned performer, conductor and tutor James was Head of Brass at London's prestigious Royal Academy of Music until his sudden and untimely death at the age of 59 in February 2011. He remains sorely missed throughout the musical world.
Richard Williams MBE
Richard Williams was a born entertainer. His talents were recognised in the 1938 National Eisteddfod, and at the age of 15, he began touring with a troupe of singers around the music halls of the United Kingdom, before returning home to join the then fledgling Welsh National Opera Company.
His musical career ended abruptly when his baby son contracted meningitis, making him profoundly deaf, and Richard, appalled by the facilities to help children with this condition, decided to educate his son himself. With a part-time job selling insurance helping to keep his family going, he devoted the rest of his time to music, forming the Gentleman Songsters in 1951, the Richard Williams Singers in 1965 and the Richard Williams Junior Singers in 1966.
Each achieved remarkable success, with frequent broadcasts, recording sessions and tours of Europe and North America. In total they performed 24 overseas concert tours, to Moscow, Vienna, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Prague, Paris, Toronto and Vancouver. The choirs also performed on numerous occasions before royalty.
Richard Williams continued to train young singers at his Tonyrefail Music Centre in the Rhondda Valleys, and commonly saw three generations of singers pass from the nursery choir through to the adults. At the age of 54 Richard qualified as a teacher, and in 1977 was awarded the MBE for his services to music in the community. In 1993 the Open University in Wales honoured him with a Degree of Master of the University.
Richard sadly passed away in December 2007 but prior to that Craig and Richard worked together on many happy occasions in concert with musical theatre star Peter Karrie, on a series of Last Night of the Proms events and on several years of incredibly successful Glory of Christmas performances. Richard will be sadly missed. Craig continues to collaborate with his choirs and talented daughters Margaret and Helen.
His musical career ended abruptly when his baby son contracted meningitis, making him profoundly deaf, and Richard, appalled by the facilities to help children with this condition, decided to educate his son himself. With a part-time job selling insurance helping to keep his family going, he devoted the rest of his time to music, forming the Gentleman Songsters in 1951, the Richard Williams Singers in 1965 and the Richard Williams Junior Singers in 1966.
Each achieved remarkable success, with frequent broadcasts, recording sessions and tours of Europe and North America. In total they performed 24 overseas concert tours, to Moscow, Vienna, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Prague, Paris, Toronto and Vancouver. The choirs also performed on numerous occasions before royalty.
Richard Williams continued to train young singers at his Tonyrefail Music Centre in the Rhondda Valleys, and commonly saw three generations of singers pass from the nursery choir through to the adults. At the age of 54 Richard qualified as a teacher, and in 1977 was awarded the MBE for his services to music in the community. In 1993 the Open University in Wales honoured him with a Degree of Master of the University.
Richard sadly passed away in December 2007 but prior to that Craig and Richard worked together on many happy occasions in concert with musical theatre star Peter Karrie, on a series of Last Night of the Proms events and on several years of incredibly successful Glory of Christmas performances. Richard will be sadly missed. Craig continues to collaborate with his choirs and talented daughters Margaret and Helen.