Ian Walker our Musical Director
"So you think I can only play with one elbow?"
Ian has been actively engaged in the performance of live music, as an orchestral member, singer, soloist, musical director and concert organizer for many, many years.
Recent performances have included a wide range of music, from Bach, Handel and Vivaldi, Mozart, Bizet and Fauré, to popular songs from the Sixties and Seventies, plus music from shows and films.
On stage, Ian has participated with Rainbow, a local all singing and dancing group in a performance of Lust and previously as a Panto Dame with general audience acclaim agreeing that he has ankles to die for!!!!!
On a more serious note, Ian has sung with and conducted the Leigh Orpheus Male Voice Choir and has directed a number of musicals for local societies. Ian has also participated in the Southend Philharmonic Orchestra concerts as player, conductor and organiser since the age of 13, and is currently their chairman. Ian has also been musical director of the Eastwood Chorale for over 15 years.
We regularly feature quality musicians and soloists in our concerts, and like to give opportunities to new talent. We have been delighted to have included in our recent concerts:
- Joanna Smith..our accompanist and pianist
- Martyn Heald..organist and pianist
- Roderick Elms..organist and pianist
- Lance Oliver..violin
- Joseph Rous..saxophone
- Benjamin Rous..piano and conductor
- Valdimar Hilmarsson..bass
- Alexandra Rigazzi-Tarling..mezzo-soprano
- Ruth Gomme..soprano
- Speedwell Strings..string sextet
- Vanessa Ashbee..soprano
- Nick Bland..organist
- Paul Martin..baritone
- Ellis Pantelli..treble
- Laura Mitchell..soprano
- Katherine Bond..soprano
- Caryl Hughes..mezzo-soprano
- Gareth Malone..tenor
- Robert Anderson..bass baritone
- Philip Eve..tenor