Organist and continuo player Ben Bloor works regularly with Tom Hammond Davies and is a founding member of the Oxford Bach Soloists. Nicholas Keyworth talks to Ben to hear more about his studies and career in music.
Firstly, I asked Ben to tell us a bit about his musical background and his involvement with the Oxford Bach Soloists.
I had my first musical exposure as a chorister in Derby Cathedral, and subsequently held organ scholarships at St George’s Chapel, Windsor Castle, New College, Oxford and Westminster Cathedral. My undergraduate degree is in music from the University of Oxford and I’m currently on a Personal Study Programme for organ at Birmingham Conservatoire.
I have been heavily involved with projects for the Oxford Bach Soloists during my three years at university, mainly as a continuo player. It really helped me to spread my wings, working in an accompanying role with other people who are passionate about their craft.
And what about playing in other ensembles and orchestras?
I’m currently the organist of the London Oratory Church, in which capacity I play for weekly Mass and Vespers, accompanying the professional choir and the two children’s choirs. Alongside this I teach the organ at Westminster School. I’m incredibly lucky to have struck a really enjoyable balance of performing and teaching, that allows me enough time to explore various freelance avenues too, like giving solo recitals and touring with chamber groups.
I asked Ben if there were any particular highlights during his career which stood out to date…
Picking a highlight is quite tricky – I feel very privileged to be able to do what I love and make music with like-minded people and every day presents something different and exciting. A particularly memorable and poignant event was accompanying the Blenheim Singers for the funeral of the 12th Duke of Marlborough in October 2014. I also love my current position as Organist at Westminster School which allows me to play for services in Westminster Abbey twice a week – it brings a smile to my face every time!
And what about future musical ambitions?
I’ve been entering some organ competitions recently, with the hope of broadening my performing profile in a stimulating environment. The challenge of learning a set number of pieces back to front is tough but rewarding. If I manage to get anywhere past the first round in the competitions, that’s a bonus! But I find it most beneficial actually listening to the interpretations of fellow competitors, especially from those who hail from different traditions.
Finally, I asked Ben what he sees as the value of ensembles like Oxford Bach Soloists to younger professional musicians like himself…
Ensembles are only ever as good as the person leading them and Tom Hammond-Davies is an excellent director and mentor, who connects extremely well with musicians, both socially and professionally. Through a combination of clear direction and exciting musicianship that’s often a little outside-the-box, he has the ability to nurture an ensemble’s sound on a personal level, while also eking out and developing any ideas that individuals may have. Making music in this environment is always something I look forward to, especially as the musicians involved are always friendly and responsive.
Don’t miss the next Oxford Bach Soloists concert with Spirits of the Earth at New College Chapel, Oxford on 19 February.
