About Ashtead Choral Society
Background
Ashtead Choral Society was founded by the eminent baritone, George Pizzey, in 1949, followed by an inaugural concert the following year. During his tenure the Society expanded in size and since its inception has followed a policy of working with professional soloists and orchestras. In recent years the Society has worked with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Hanover Band, City of London Chamber Players, London Gala Orchestra, London Concertante and Guildford Philharmonic Orchestra.
George Pizzey retired from the conducting rostrum in 1974, succeeded by Arthur Diamond. During the next 20 years the number of singing members expanded to its current 135, as did the repertoire of the Society. The first continental tour was undertaken in 1986 to France. Since then the Society has returned to France on three other occasions and also toured in Germany, Belgium and, most recently, the Czech Republic.
| George Pizzey (by George de Fossard)
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In 1998 Paul Dodds succeeded Arthur Diamond and has guided the Society since then, including their 50th Anniversary Season. Over the years the society has performed virtually all the works in the standard choral repertoire. Recent performances include Bach’s B minor Mass, Mozart’s Requiem, Britten’s War Requiem, Haydn’s Creation and Walton’s Belshazzar’s Feast.
Paul Dodds - Conductor
Paul Dodds
| Birmingham born, Paul was educated at Solihull School and subsequently read music at the University of Exeter, where his interest in conducting began. During his postgraduate year he was appointed conductor of the University Chamber Orchestra, the first student to hold the post.
Paul has lived in Surrey for the last sixteen years and since 1989 has been Director of Music at the City of London Freemen’s School. He is currently conductor of the Ashtead Singers and from, 1990-1998, assistant conductor of ACS. In recent years Paul has made guest appearances with several choirs in the Southeast, including appearances at the Barbican and Fairfield Halls. Appointed as conductor to ACS in 1998, recent performances have included Britten’s War Requiem, Elgar’s Dream of Gerontius, Bach’s B Minor Mass and Mozart’s Requiem.
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Recently with ACS Paul was invited to conduct Walton’s Belshazzar’s Feast with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Apart from his conducting and teaching commitments, Paul is an ISI School Inspector and music festival adjudicator.
Patrons and Friends of ACS
Patrons allow the Society to perform works which otherwise would be too expensive to consider. Patrons are individuals or organisations who wish to support the work of the Society by making a financial donation for the season.
The Friends of ACS support and encourage the choir. Several have joined the choir on tours to Europe. New Friends are always welcome.
