Who conducts the choir at Westminster Abbey?
The conductor of the Westminster Abbey choir is James O’Donnell. In truth, to provide him his full title, O’Donnell is organist and grasp of the choristers of Westminster Abbey.
Because the individual in command of music on the Abbey, O’Donnell could have a key function to play on the Queen’s funeral on 19 September. Let’s discover out extra in regards to the man and his profession.
How previous is James O’Donnell?
Born in 1961, James O’Donnell is at present 61 years previous.
How lengthy has he been at Westminster Abbey?
O’Donnell has held the put up of organist and choirmaster of Westminster since 2000.
What does his job entail?
As organist and choirmaster at Westminster, O’Donnell has been answerable for the music at nationwide ceremonies held on the Abbey. These have included the funeral of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mom in 2002, and the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011. He may even be arranging the music on the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, in Westminster Abbey on 19 September.
What roles did James O’Donnell have earlier than arriving at Westminster Abbey?
O’Donnell’s first main function was as assistant grasp of music at Westminster Cathedral, the place he subsequently turned grasp of music in 1988. He later labored as professor of organ on the Royal Academy of Music, the UK’s oldest conservatoire, from 1997 to 2004. Extra lately, in 2010-13, O’Donnell served as president-elect, and subsequently president, of the Royal School of Organists.
Later this yr, O’Donnell will take up a brand new place as professor on the Yale College of Music and Yale Institute of Sacred Music and Andrew Nethsingha will take over his function at Westminster Abbey – and subsequently fairly probably presiding over the music for King Charles III coronation
The place did James O’Donnell do his coaching?
O’Donnell realized his commerce as organ scholar at Jesus School, Cambridge.
What else ought to I find out about James O’Donnell?
Varied awards and honours have come O’Donnell’s method. For instance, throughout his tenure there, Westminster Cathedral Choir gained a Royal Philharmonic Society Award – the primary choir to win such an award. Later, after leaving Westminster Cathedral, O’Donnell was awarded the papal honour of Knight Commander of the Order of St Gregory the Nice (KCSG).
He has additionally been elected a fellow of the Royal College of Church Music (FRSCM), an honorary member of the Royal Academy of Music (HonRAM), and a fellow of the Royal School of Music (FRCM).
Final however not least, O’Donnell set to music the phrases of Psalm 139, O Lord, thou hast searched me, and recognized me. He performed this setting for the reception of the Queen’s coffin at Westminster Corridor through the week of official mourning.
