John Challenger returns to St John's as Acting Director of Music

As our Director Andrew Nethsingha takes a sabbatical during the Lent Term, we are very pleased to welcome back John Challenger to St John’s as Acting Director of Music.  John was an Organ Scholar at St John’s from 2008 to 2011, and since then has become Assistant Director of Music at Salisbury Cathedral.  Outside of his cathedral work he is a regular recitalist and his debut solo album, 'Elgar from Salisbury,' received much critical praise including five starts from Choir and Organ Magazine.

When asked about his new position, John said: "I am absolutely thrilled to be back at St John’s, where I had an exceptional time as a student and Organ Scholar.  It is a great honour now to be conducting this world-famous choir.

"I am looking forward in particular to the Bach Cantata and Ash Wednesday Evensongs, both of which contain some remarkable music.  I was lucky to receive an unparalleled musical training whilst at St John’s, under the directorship of Andrew Nethsingha.  The sound of this Choir had the most profound musical influence on me, so to be working daily with such exceptional musicians is an enormous privilege."