We are very fortunate to have two very talented musical staff leading us through our rehearsals and performances.
Our Musical Director – Matthew Lazenby
“Matthew has been musical director of HCS since 2016, prior to which he accompanied the choir. He is also Director of Music at St Hilda’s and St Saviour’s Churches in Leeds, and Musical Director of The Pusey Consort, a Leeds-based liturgical chamber choir.
In addition, he is an organist, accompanist and teacher of piano and singing. Matthew grew up in Yorkshire and is a graduate of Leeds University. “
Our Accompanist – Matthew Collins
Matthew Collins has been the accompanist for Horsforth Choral Society since January 2022. He graduated from the University of York with a master’s degree in Vocal Studies, specialising in accompaniment, and is an Associate of the Royal College of Organists (ARCO). Matthew has participated in masterclasses with international concert pianists Leslie Howard, Pascal Rogé and Piers Lane and currently studies the organ with Keith Wright.
He was appointed Director of Music at Howden Minster in 2009 and has many oratorio credits as a musical director or accompanist. He is also co-owner of York Singing Academy where he has been the principal accompanist since 2006, alongside teaching music theory, assisting with the vocal tuition and playing for students’ exams and performances.
Matthew is a frequent piano and organ recitalist, however it is as a collaborative musician and freelance accompanist for choirs, solo singers and instrumentalists which brings him the most joy.