Richard Jenkinson

Richard Jenkinson grew up in Sussex, and received his early musical training through the County Music Service. He won a scholarship to continue his studies at The Royal College of Music in London, where - among many inspirational characters - Sir David Willcocks was a great influence and source of inspiration.

Richard now has a busy and vibrant career as a freelance musician, specialising in choral music of all kinds, as conductor, accompanist and composer, working regularly with many of the major choirs and choral societies in and around London and South East England. His post of Musical Director to the East Grinstead Choral Society continues to be immensely rewarding, as this great and famous choir moves forward into the next chapter of its musical life.

Richard is currently MD to the Choral Societies of Tunbridge Wells and East Grinstead, and to the chamber choir Meridian Voices. He is now looking forward eagerly to his new appointment as Conductor of the London Orpheus Choir, where he will follow in the well established and eminent steps of James Gaddarn.

Broadcasts and compositions have taken Richard to a world-wide audience, including Australia and the USA. Richard is also experienced in directing Choral Workshops - a leading/coaching/teaching role which he particularly enjoys. He has also travelled widely on concert tours, including directing choirs and orchestras in “musical exchanges” in Spain, Italy, Germany and Austria plus “return fixtures” in the UK.

When not working, Richard enjoys sport (mostly from the safety and comfort of a large sofa, with a good beer for sustenance!) and - most of all - the beauty and tranquility of village life in his native and much-loved county of West Sussex.