Christopher Slater, Director of Music

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Chris Slater was born in Sutton, Surrey and educated at Clayesmore School, Dorset. He won the Harvey Grace Open Scholarship to Trinity College of Music where he studied piano and conducting. He studied subsequently at the Royal College of Music becoming a Professor there in 1972. In the meantime he had taken organ lessons and took various posts as Organist and Choirmaster in Surrey. His most recent post was as Director of Music at Leatherhead Parish Church where he served 12 years.

Ever since his school days Chris has been interested in conducting and has toured as a professional theatre conductor as well as concertising with some top professional orchestras. He formed his own pro-am orchestra in 1991 which gives concerts in Surrey and London. The Slater Symphony Orchestra is non-profit making and is a registered charity. New players are always welcome. Contact Chris on 01372 454963.

Chris also tutors adult music appreciation classes for the WEA and Birkbeck College.

Chris has two (grown up) children and two grandchildren. His daughter Carol was ordained at Guildford Cathedral in June 2003. His eldest grandson (9) was christened at Shalford in 1994.

Chris would like to think that his aim in life, in the words of Donald Coggan, is "to foster and encourage good music to the glory of God".