Biography
The Musical Path
Chris began his musical journey as a chorister at Lincoln Cathedral, later earning a first-class degree from the University of Sheffield. He has held Lay Clerk roles at Manchester and Wakefield Cathedrals, performing as a soloist in renowned works like Bach's Johannes-Passion and Verdi's Requiem. Founder of the acclaimed Tallis Consort, Chris is passionate about nurturing young singers and is in much demand as a vocal tutor.
This year has been completely invaluable, all thanks to Chris. The advice, teaching and most importantly being challenged has been the catalyst.
Chris is a freelance tenor based in West Yorkshire, studying under Paul Nilon.
He began his formal training as a chorister at Lincoln Cathedral under the direction of Charles Harrison. Chris furthered his education at the University of Sheffield, earning a first-class degree in music and was awarded the Mrs. Stewart Blake Recital Prize in his final year. During his undergraduate years, he served as a Choral Scholar and Lay Clerk at Wakefield Cathedral. After graduating, Chris secured a Lay Clerkship at Manchester Cathedral, where he sang under the direction of Christopher Stokes.
As a soloist, Chris enjoys a mixture of oratorio and recital work. Recent highlights include performing the role of the Evangelist in Bach's Johannes-Passion with Lincoln Cathedral Choir, Britten's Saint Nicolas at Beverley Minster, Verdi's Requiem with Exeter Festival Chorus, Beethoven's Symphony No. 9 with the Liverpool Welsh Choral Union, Rossini's Petite Messe Solennelle with Bath Bach Choir, Schubert's Winterreise at Ripon Cathedral, Handel's Messiah with the combined Cathedral Choirs of Liverpool Anglican and Metropolitan, and Stanford's Missa Victrix at Lincoln Cathedral.
Chris has collaborated with several prestigious ensembles, including the BBC Radio 4 Daily Service Singers, Stile Antico, and the Armonico Consort. Driven by his passion for polyphonic music, he founded the professional vocal ensemble, the Tallis Consort, which has since gained national acclaim.
In addition to his performing career, Chris is deeply committed to the education and development of young singers. In 2023, he was appointed Acting Director of Music at Sheffield Cathedral, where he provided vocal instruction to the Choral Scholars and founded the Sheffield Cathedral Community Choir. More recently, Chris was the Singing Teacher for Choristers at Wakefield Cathedral. He currently teaches singing at Gateways School whilst maintaining a thriving private practice.