David Ponsford

David Ponsford is an Associate Lecturer (17 years) at Cardiff University, specializing in Baroque music performance, historical performance practice, and music editing. He holds a PhD in French Baroque organ music from the University of Cambridge under Peter Williams and is a Fellow of the Royal College of Organists. His roles include teaching organ and harpsichord at institutions such as Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, and Wells Cathedral School.

• Education: Greenwood Exhibitioner at Emmanuel College, Cambridge; PhD in French Baroque Organ Music (2004).

His research focuses on Baroque organ music, particularly French repertoire, and historical instrument performance. He has published a seminal book on Louis XIV-era French organ music and edited works by Grigny, Biber, and Bach. His recordings, including French Baroque organ works on historic instruments, have earned critical acclaim. He collaborates internationally with ensembles like period instrument groups and performs with David Hill on harpsichord duets. He regularly teaches at the Royal College of Organists and Madingley Hall (Cambridge).

• Awards: Fellow of the Royal College of Organists.

He conducted Cardiff University’s Chamber Orchestra and Choir and has led courses on Baroque music. His performances span multiple countries, emphasizing organ repertoire tailored to specific instruments. He owns a harpsichord collection, used for recordings such as Parthenia and Bach’s violin sonatas with Jacqueline Ross.