Following the departure of Lee Benstead as WYSO conductor last Summer, Wakefield Music Services are pleased to introduce the new Director, James Cunningham. James is a talented teacher, conductor and musician with a wealth of experience in directing musical ensembles. James currently works as a teacher for the East Riding Music Service and is also the Associate Conductor of EYMS Brass Band.
Previously, James was the Principal Conductor of the Birmingham Concert Orchestra and worked extensively with the ensembles of Birmingham Music Service, including directing the Music Service Brass Band. In addition, he conducted at the grand opening of the new Birmingham Town Hall and made his Symphony Hall debut working with Jamie Crick. He is already proving to be an inspiring figure for the orchestra and we are looking forward to his debut concert with us on July 3rd in Wakefield Cathedral.
Val Jennings, Head of Instrumental Music comments, "The staff and all the students look forward to working with James. In the short time he has been with us, he is already proving to be a very dynamic Director." Wakefield Music Services would also like to extend their thanks to Graham Hall and Steven Wood for their hard work in directing the orchestra in the Autumn Term and for the Winter Concert in November.
