Honorary Music Patrons
Wayne Marshall

We are delighted to announce that Wayne Marshall OBE has accepted our invitation to be the first Honorary Music Patron of Hertfordshire Chorus. The role of Honorary Music Patron is designed to celebrate relationships with some of the outstanding musicians who have been part of our history. Wayne is an internationally recognised conductor, organist and pianist who has travelled the world to play in the most prestigious venues with first class orchestras. A good friend of David Temple for many years, he conducted Hertfordshire Chorus in Porgy and Bess in the Wratislava Cantans Festival in Wroclaw, Poland in 2019.
‘I am delighted that Wayne has become Hertfordshire Chorus’s first Honorary Music Patron. He is a truly gifted musician who lights up the concert stage and inspires all who work with him.’ David Temple
‘It would be an absolute honour and pleasure to become the first Honorary Music Patron of the Hertfordshire Chorus. Wayne Marshall’
Will Todd
We are delighted announce that Will Todd has accepted our invitation to be an Honorary Music Patron of Hertfordshire Chorus. The role of Honorary Music Patron is designed to celebrate relationships with some of the outstanding musicians who have been part of our history. English composer Will is well known around the world for his beautiful and exciting music. His work encompasses choral works large and small, opera, musical theatre and orchestral pieces, as well as jazz compositions and chamber works.
‘Will’s relationship with Hertfordshire Chorus has always been very special and so it is such a thrill to welcome him as an Honorary Music Patron.’ David Temple
‘I’d be delighted to accept this invitation. Wishing all of you at Herts Chorus all the VERY BEST. Will’
Diana Moore
We are delighted announce that Diana Moore has accepted our invitation to be an Honorary Music Patron of Hertfordshire Chorus. The role of Honorary Music Patron is designed to celebrate relationships with some of the outstanding musicians who have been part of our history. British mezzo-soprano Diana Moore has established herself as a firm favourite with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic, acclaimed for her unique voice which ‘combines the range of a mezzo with the tone quality of a contralto’
‘Diana is equally at home in early and modern music, such is her versatility. Most of the soloists I choose to work with are delightful people, with a generous and encouraging attitude towards high class choral singing. Diana’s relationship with Hertfordshire Chorus is a perfect example of this. I am delighted to welcome Diana as an Honorary Music Patron.’ David Temple
‘What a wonderful request – and I would be honoured to accept! Hertfordshire Chorus are probably one of my most loyal supporters… I’ve enjoyed every single one of my collaborations with you over the years and am pleased to call you friends! Thank you so much for asking – you made my day! Lots of love to you all, Diana’
James McCarthy
We are delighted announce that James McCarthy has accepted our invitation to be an Honorary Music Patron of Hertfordshire Chorus. The role of Honorary Music Patron is designed to celebrate relationships with some of the outstanding musicians who have been part of our history. James McCarthy’s highly emotional and distinctive music has been broadcast and performed around the world.
‘There is something deeply touching about James’s music, which looks simple on the page but in real sound it springs to life and draws out such profound emotions. On top of everything else, he is such a lovely man and so it is so fitting that he should become an Honorary Music Patron.’ David Temple
‘I would count it as an extraordinary honour and privilege to be an Honorary Music Patron of Hertfordshire Chorus, just as it has been an honour to write so much music for such a wonderful group of singers. Thank you very much for this kind invitation…There are few sounds as glorious as Hertfordshire Chorus in full flight. Please pass my thanks and love on to the choir for me. With many best wishes, James’
Read more about James McCarthy
Ashley Riches
We are delighted announce that Ashley Riches has accepted our invitation to be an Honorary Music Patron of Hertfordshire Chorus. The role of Honorary Music Patron is designed to celebrate relationships with some of the outstanding musicians who have been part of our history. Bass-baritone Ashley is one of the world’s leading baritones and we are so proud to have worked with him for many years since his early days as an emerging singer.
‘As a singer, he is equally at home in solo recitals, opera and concert works. His performances are immaculate, with profound interpretative vision and such clear words. Ashley’s relationship with Hertfordshire Chorus and me is very special and so he is a very obvious choice to be an Honorary Music Patron.’ David Temple
‘I am touched and honoured by your invitation, which of course I am delighted to accept. I hugely admire what Herts does – from the precision and commitment of performance to the range of repertoire and commissioning of new pieces. Warmest wishes, Ashley’
Guy Johnston
We are delighted to announce that Guy Johnston has accepted our invitation to be an Honorary Music Patron of Hertfordshire Chorus. The Chorus has performed regularly at Hatfield House Chamber Music Festival, of which Guy is Artistic Director. The role of Honorary Music Patron is designed to celebrate relationships with some of the outstanding musicians who have been part of our history.
Guy is one of the most exciting British cellists of his generation. He was BBC Young Musician of the Year and has established a world-wide reputation as soloist and chamber musician. Guy is a founder member of the award-winning Aronowitz Ensemble.
‘Guy is always so full of praise for Hertfordshire Chorus and it seems so fitting that he should become an Honorary Music Patron of his local choir.’ David Temple