Hugh Beckwith
Hugh took over as Musical Director of Elmbridge Choir in September 2020, at a time when choirs were unable to meet physically due to the Covid-19 restrictions. Rehearsing virtually on Zoom was not the easiest way to get to know his new choir but, despite the challenges, Hugh’s teaching style and his engaging and amiable personality very quickly won the hearts and minds of his choir members.In 2023, Hugh completed a Masters Degree at Guildhall School of Music and Drama in vocal performance, having completed his BA (Hons) Music at University of Manchester in 2018. He has led numerous vocal groups including the Magna Carta Chorus and Thameside Harmony Chorus, and currently also conducts The Vine Singers and Egham Choral. As a Tenor soloist, Hugh is much in demand; he has appeared in a number of BBC Radio 3 and 4 broadcasts and has performed at the English National Opera and the Royal Opera, and with the Genesis Sixteen Choir. Since 2023 he has enjoyed performing with Opera Holland Park. Hugh’s range of musical experience extends to musical theatre both as a performer and musical director, including at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, as well as music composition, teaching and mentoring young choral scholars. Hugh also sings with jazz vocal ensemble, Standard Deviation.
Elmbridge Choir is continually developing and thriving under Hugh’s leadership. While members benefit from his knowledge, teaching and attention to detail, they also gain confidence from his encouragement - and have a lot of fun in the process!
