Biography of Andrew West
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Andrew was educated at Bishop Stopford School in Enfield, Middlesex and took organ lessons with Peter Smith (Cheshunt Parish Church). At the age of 16, he was appointed organist of St Matthew, Ponders End, a post which he held for two years. In 1998, Andrew furthered his studies at Colchester Institute, Centre for Music and Performance Arts and Kutztown University, Pennsylvania, USA, graduating with an honours degree in Liturgical Music in 2001. He studied singing with Ian Ray and organ with Christopher Phelps (former organist of Armagh Cathedral) and Dr Ina Grapenthin (USA). Andrew was organist and choirmaster of Colchester Parish Church for four years, alongside which he undertook postgraduate research in Liturgical Music with Bill Tamblyn at Colchester Institute. |
As a solo organist and accompanist, Andrew has the opportunity to play in numerous churches and cathedrals throughout the UK and Europe. Andrew was Assistant Director of Music at Pinner Parish Church from 2004 until 2010. Andrew took the choir to sing services at Truro, Southwark, St Edmundsbury, Chelmsford, Bristol and Gloucester cathedrals and also a visit to Westminster Abbey. He is an active volunteer for the Royal School of Church Music and was for three years Awards Administrator for the London Area.
Since December 2011, Andrew has been Director of Music at St Luke's, Bournemouth. Alongside his musical commitments, Andrew is also a professional Toastmaster and Master of Ceremonies. He lives in Poole, Dorset with his fiancée, Laura.
Click HERE to see the portfolio of organs that Andrew has played.