Award-winning chamber choir, Bath Camerata, are thrilled to announce that Benjamin Goodson has been appointed as their new Musical Director. Described by composer and choral conductor Paul Spicer as “unequivocally one of the most naturally gifted conductors I have encountered”, Benjamin joins the choir in time for their summer season, taking over from their founding musical director of 28 years, Nigel Perrin, who stepped aside after the choir’s acclaimed Good Friday concert in Wells Cathedral. Educated at Hertford College, Oxford, Benjamin won Oxford University’s most coveted conducting prize and now enjoys a blossoming career as a conductor, choir trainer and chorus master. Aside from Bath Camerata, Benjamin also conducts three other choirs, a variety of ensembles and will be making his debut at the Dorset Opera Festival in July.
On his appointment Benjamin said “I am delighted to have been chosen as Bath Camerata’s musical director. Listening to their recordings and hearing them in my audition, it was very clear to me what an excellent group of musicians this is. I look forward to working with them to build a future of innovative and exciting concerts together.”
Graham Shaw, a long term member of the choir said “As a choir we were both overwhelmed and flattered by the quantity and quality of conductors who wanted to be our new musical director. We thoroughly enjoyed the selection process, particularly being able to work with so many talented conductors at the audition stage.” Choir member Alastair Steel added “Benjamin’s application stood out for me, being clear and concise and conveying a passion for the variety we enjoy and the excellence for which we strive in Bath Camerata. Benjamin is an exceptionally talented musician and we are really looking forward to new challenges, new repertoire and a new chapter in the life of Bath Camerata under his leadership.”
Bath Camerata will be appearing in two concerts during this year’s Bath International Music Festival in May, but their first major outing under the direction of Benjamin Goodson will be an American themed concert on Saturday 4 July at the Guildhall, Bath. Tickets will be on sale from 27 April via the choir’s website www.bathcamerata.org.uk and via Bath Box Office on 01225 463362.