Countertenor, The King's Singers 

Trustee, Rufus' Friends' Fund   

What are your fondest memories of being at Warwick School? 

My wonderful times in the Chapel Choir! When I was a treble, I used to love the magical feel of Advent Sunday. The services were so popular we had to sing the service twice. So Mr Barr arranged for us to have supper with the boarders, which we'd eat as fast as we could so that we could get back to the music department before the teachers to play hide and seek! 

Where and what did you study after leaving Warwick? What did you enjoy about it/give you? 

I studied Geography at Girton College, Cambridge. I loved how broad and topical the subject was. In one lecture I was studying international development and the next we were being taught about glacial meltwater!  

What is your current role? 

I am one of the Countertenors in The King's Singers, the a cappella sextet formed in 1968. I am lucky to travel the world with five best friends and bring joy to people by singing.  

Has your career had any unexpected or unusual twists? 

Yes! I was training to be a lawyer in a London law firm, when I was asked by The King's Singers to audition for the group, and unexpectedly I was given a place! 

Have you been involved in any other interesting activities/occupations since leaving school? 

I run a small charity called Rufus' Friends' Fund. The charity provides grants to low-income families in Warwickshire who have a member with learning difficulties, allowing them to benefit from a much-needed break, holiday or trip, and giving families and carers some respite. 

How has your time at Warwick helped you in your career? 

Certainly. My musical training at school has been central to my career. I first started singing as a countertenor at the age of 15. 

Did any one person at Warwick have a positive influence on you and/or your career aspirations? 

Mr Barr, amongst many others!  

Are there any other defining points in your career/life post Warwick that you could share? 

After graduating I was appointed as the Alto Lay Clerk at King’s College, Cambridge. I sang seven services each week as well as undertaking a busy schedule of recording, touring and broadcasting which included the famous Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols broadcast to millions of people across the planet.  Then in 2017, for two years, I had the pleasure of serving HM The Queen, as the Alan Kendall Countertenor, one of the six Gentleman, in her choir at the Chapel Royal at Hampton Court Palace. Highlights of my time include a service marking the centenary of the Order of the Companions of Honour in the presence of HM The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh 

Are you still in touch with other OWs and if so, do you get together?   

Yes! I have kept in touch with a few close friends from school. I was an usher for my friend's wedding recently which was great fun, and I occasionally bump into school friends as I tour the world with The King's Singers 

What advice would you give to your teenage self? 

 Be yourself, whatever that may be!