Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in music?
A musical family and very supportive parents and life as a Cathedral Chorister at Worcester, (during which time I sang at the opening of Coventry Cathedral).
Who or what are the most significant influences on your musical life?
Wonderful teachers at school, Harry Bramma and Christopher Robinson. Kenneth Leighton and Simon Preston at Oxford, working with composers all my life, notably Michael Tippett and learning from conductors such as Bernard Haitink and John Pritchard.
What, for you, is the most challenging part of being a conductor? And the most fulfilling/exciting?
Rehearsals. Getting what you want, respecting the musicians and creating a good atmosphere. Using ones ears well and having an efficient rehearsal technique, as there is often limited time.
Turning a rehearsal into a real performance, fulfilling and exciting but difficult.
Are there any particular challenges in conducting both choir and orchestra?
Ensemble. Orchestras and choirs can play and sing on different parts of the beat, often made harder by distance. Balance, (try to have an assistant helping with this).
What, in your opinion, is the value of events such as the Royal School of Church Music’s Come and Sing Stanford With Orchestra?
The chance to sing the “Mag and Nunc in A” [Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis in A] with its original orchestration, and other Stanford works orchestrated by Jeremy Dibble. These works are so “orchestral” in concept, with a variety of colours and textures, the sheer range and excitement of a large orchestra, make such an event very special.
Do you have a favourite concert venue to perform in?
Two, if I may. For choral works, Merton College Chapel, Oxford and for a wonderful space, suitable for large orchestras, chamber music and speech, the Concert Hall in the Queensland Conservatorium in Brisbane.
What do you do off stage that provides inspiration on stage?
Theatre Directors have a word – “subtext”. Words and music are multi-layered, go behind the printed page, search for as many meanings and intentions the composer or writer has. Thorough preparation over a good period of time, will store up real insight and give depth to your interpretation.
What do you feel needs to be done to grow/sustain classical music audiences?
More music (and all Art forms) in schools, offering Classical Music alongside other genres, and persuade funders, politicians and others of the huge benefits of music to health and well-being.
Hold our heads high. Classical music is not elitist, have better funding for better access, and don’t go in for “gimmicks”. Let this great music speak for itself.
As a musician what is your definition of success?
Benjamin Britten talked of a Holy Trinity – composer/performer/audience.
If, as a Performer, I have served the Composer well, and, most importantly reached and enriched the audience/listener, that is success.
What advice would you give to young or aspiring conductors/musicians?
I’m reminded of the story of someone in New York asking the way to Carnegie Hall – the answer was “practice”. Harder for conductors than singers or players. You will get all the advice and coaching you need, and will be able to assess your abilities. However exceptional these are, ask yourself if you have the drive and understanding of the pressures and sacrifices of a musical career. Good luck, you can contribute so much.
What’s the one thing we’re not talking about in the music industry which you feel we should be?
Two again, if I may. Music in Schools and the dreadful effect of Brexit.
Where would you like to be in 10 years’ time?
I’ll be past my “sell-by-date”, but hopefully, sharing some experience with younger musicians and championing the importance of music.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
My family
What is your present state of mind?
Just within the remit of this Q/A, I worry about the under appreciation of the great canon, which is Western Classical Music.
Nicholas Cleobury directs the choir and orchestra at the Royal School of Church Music’s Come and Sing Stanford Evensong With Orchestra event in Coventry Cathedral on Saturday 28th September. Full details/booking here
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