David Ogden

David Ogden has been running workshops for church musicians for 15 years. As Director of Music for the Diocese of Clifton and Director of Music at Clifton Cathedral, Bristol, he regularly visited schools and parishes to advise on music and liturgy, as well as encouraging musicians of all ages and abilities to develop their skills as pastoral musicians.

As Regional Director for South West, Midlands and South Wales regions of the Royal School of Church Music, he encouraged music making and the training of parish choirs in 16 dioceses from Truro to Derby, and St Davids to Swindon. This involved many different kinds of events, from repertoire evenings, singing training and skills-based workshops.

With Geoff Weaver, he was instrumental in devising and teaching on the 'Out in Front' courses for choir trainers involving conducting tuition and choir training skills, and the 'One Voice To Lead Many' workshops for cantors. He was a member of the initial team that devised the RSCM 'Voice for Life' singing programme for the Royal School of Church Music, which is now used by churches all over the world.

Since becoming a freelance conductor, composer, and workshop leader in 2002, he has continued his work with the RSCM and many other organisations including the Institute of Liturgy and Mission in Manila in the Philippines, the Swiss Archdeaconary and most recently has begun work again with the Diocese of Clifton as a tutor on the Diocesan Certificate in Pastoral Liturgy.

David considers the essential ingredients of a successful workshop to be learning new skills, and being given fresh ideas in a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere where everybody can achieve more than they thought possible.