Peter Crompton, treasured and charismatic Director of Music, retires after nearly 40 years at the Royal Hospital School.
During this time he has encouraged a love for music in many thousands of young people and developed performances to the very highest level in the local community, prestigious venues throughout the UK and beyond.
Peter plans to concentrate on his own playing and composing during his well-earned retirement.
Headmaster, James Lockwood, is delighted to announce Peter’s successor in the appointment of William Saunders as Director of Music from September 2013. William has been Head of Academic Music at the School under Peter Crompton for the past academic year.
William was the successful candidate amongst strong competition including Directors of Music from a number of HMC schools.
The rigorous recruitment process involved leading a whole-school congregational practice in the cathedral-proportioned chapel, conducting the 100-strong School choir and two days of assessment with an interview panel which included the external expertise of the Headmaster of Holmwood House, Mr Alex Mitchell, who himself has been a Director of Music at an independent senior school.
Prior to joining the Royal Hospital School, William was the Assistant Director of Music at Ipswich School where he founded the popular Annual Festival of Music. He has an extensive organ recital programme which takes him to Westminster Abbey, Wells Cathedral and St Pauls’, he has toured throughout Europe and conducts the Prometheus Singers who regularly sing in St Pauls’ Cathedral.
In response to the announcement William said, “I am looking forward to take over the position in September and building on the amazing work that Peter has achieved over his tenure and developing further the impressive musical tradition that already exists at RHS”.
During his first year at the Royal Hospital School, William has shown enthusiasm and creativity in his role and Peter Crompton knows he will be successful in carrying on the well-established musical tradition of the school. “I have known William for some years now, particularly in his role as a very fine young organist and I wish him every success for the future.”
The Royal Hospital School is a coeducational boarding and day school for 11 to 18 year olds set in 200 acres of Suffolk countryside overlooking the River Stour. For more information www.royalhospitalschool.org or 01473 326210