Andy Berryman
Andrew is a renowned trombonist, conductor, and educator with an international career, holding principal positions with leading UK orchestras and currently directing the NSO Symphony Orchestra in Abu Dhabi.
Conducting
Benjamin Ellin
Benjamin Ellin is co-founder and musical director of De Mowbray Music and its festival, as well as principal conductor of the Slaithwaite Philharmonic Orchestra. He is acclaimed for his bold programming, inclusive projects, and diverse compositions ranging from symphonies to film scores, performed worldwide. Benjamin has collaborated with leading orchestras and artists globally, receiving multiple awards including the Barlow Endowment Prize. His works, including a recently premiered symphony commemorating Evgeny Svetlanov, continue to garner critical acclaim.
Kwesi Edman
Kwesi is a British cellist and conductor celebrated for his expressive and versatile musicianship across classical, contemporary, and popular genres. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Music, he has performed with leading ensembles such as the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields and the BBC Concert Orchestra, and collaborated with artists including Elton John and Damon Albarn. As an educator, Kwesi teaches at Forest School and directs multiple programmes including the Oxford Cello School and Chamber Academy Orchestra, promoting technical excellence, creativity, and inclusivity in music education.
Jonathan Barrett
Jonathan Barrett is a conductor, composer, and educator based in Dubai since 2012. He teaches at Emirates International School and leads the UAE National Youth Orchestra, nurturing young musicians. Jonathan has composed notable works performed at Dubai Opera and has conducted orchestras in both the UAE and the US. With degrees in trombone and composition from Baylor University, he is dedicated to fostering musical growth in the region.
Simon Chalk
“dynamic”… “passionate… “committed”… “devilish but with a great sense of fun”… “a musician’s conductor”. These are not the words of a music critic but those of simon’s many orchestral colleagues throughout the world.