SEMusic has announced that Ben Dolan will replace Charlie Corkin as Director at the end of the 2023-24 season.
Since assuming the role in 2018, Charlie Corkin has led SEMusic with passion, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Under his leadership, the choir has achieved numerous milestones and touched the hearts of audiences through their soul-stirring performances and inclusive way of working.
Throughout Charlie Corkin's tenure, SEMusic has delighted audiences with annual Christmas events, filling venues with joyous melodies and spreading the spirit of the season. Amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Charlie spearheaded innovative online events that brought the magic of music directly to the homes of thousands, uplifting spirits during difficult times.
A significant highlight during his directorship was the successful launch of SEMusic's Junior Choir, symbolising growth, inclusivity, and the passing of the torch to a new generation of talented singers initially led by Sophie McQueen and now Jenni Daniels. This expansion further solidified SEMusic's position as a pillar of musical excellence and inclusion within the community.
Charlie Corkin attributes much of the choir's success to the unwavering support and dedication of its singers and the exceptional efforts of the support team. SEMusic has fostered an environment where singers have become a close-knit family, supporting each other through both joyous and challenging times.
Ben Dolan has been appointed as Director and will work closely with Charlie during this transitional period. Ben is currently Parish Lead Musician for St Oscar Romero Parish, Seaforth and Waterloo and is an Assistant Director of SEMusic. As pianist and composer, Ben has a number of works under his belt already and has had some of his compositions performed in several countries.
Charlie said "for more than half of my lifetime, I have had the tremendous pleasure to be involved in the work of St Edmund's Choir and, today, SEMusic. It has been a place where friends have been formed, memories have been made and where music has touched my soul. It has been an honour and a privilege to lead such important work at a time when arts and music in community or schools is no longer held to the same high regard as it once once."
"This is not a farewell or an ending by any stretch, SEMusic has a plan to continue beyond 2024 and long into the future continuing to provide excellent music in an inclusive way. I sincerely look forward to working with Ben to help shape the direction of the organisation for years to come."
Charlie will be stepping down in May 2024 when Ben will take over the role. More information about Ben's appointment and future plans for SEMusic, as well as information on our upcoming 2023-24 programme, will be shared in the coming weeks and months.