معرفی
Benjamin Nicholas is a Lecturer at Merton College, University of Oxford, serving as Organist and Director of Music since 2012. He holds roles in both academic and musical leadership, overseeing the Merton College Choir and contributing to the Faculty of Music. His career includes organ scholarships at Chichester Cathedral, Lincoln College, and St Paul’s Cathedral, followed by directing Tewkesbury Abbey’s Schola Cantorum.
Education & Training: Studied organ with David Sanger and conducting with Denise Ham. Held organ scholarships at Chichester Cathedral, Lincoln College (Oxford), and St Paul’s Cathedral.
Research & Artistic Work: Specializes in contemporary choral music, leading projects like the Merton Choirbook (commissioned for the College’s 750th anniversary). Collaborates with composers such as Gabriel Jackson, Birtwistle, and MacMillan, premiering new works. His recordings on Delphian label include Weelkes, Mozart, Stainer, Stanford, and Rutter.
Performance Highlights: Conducted Holst’s Savitri, Mozart’s Requiem, and Elgar’s The Dream of Gerontius. Led tours to France, Sweden, and the USA, with broadcasts on BBC Radio 3 and Television. Oversaw the installation of the Dobson Organ in Merton College Chapel (2013).
Awards:
- Gramophone Editor’s Choice (2014) for debut disc with Merton College Choir
Labs/Teams: Directs Merton College Choir, a central ensemble for choral performance and recordings. Spearheaded the annual Passiontide at Merton festival.
