Leon James has been appointed as Musical Director of the Solihull Chandos Choir, and will take up his baton in September, at the beginning of the 2019-2020 season. The Choir started searching for a new Musical Director last year, after their present Director John Bayley announced his retirement.

 

Leon's love of singing began as a choirboy, and then as a Westminster Abbey chorister. He studied at the Birmingham Conservatoire, where he won a number of singing prizes, and went on to perform professionally all over Europe. He has sung with many well known ensembles such as The Sixteen, The Academy of Ancient Music and Ex Cathedra. He moved into teaching, developing his conducting skills with school choirs and choral societies. He has wide experience across the choral repertoire.

 

Chandos Chairman Geoffrey Biggs said “Leon was invited to be our new Director after an intensive series of interviews and a trial rehearsal with the full Choir. His enthusiasm, leadership and musicality made him our top choice”.

 

Leon James said “I'm absolutely thrilled to have been selected to become the fifth MD of the wonderful Solihull Chandos Choir. Chandos gave me a number of performing opportunities as a young bass-baritone soloist back in the late 80's and early 90's, so it will be tremendous to be able to return the favour!”