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Magdalene College Cambridge

Mr James Potter

James Potter is Precentor and Director of Music at Magdalene College, directing the Chapel Choir and supervising College music.

James’ wide-ranging portfolio encompasses work with professional and amateur ensembles, choral societies, chamber and church choirs, and new music groups, as well as writing.

Having read Music at The Queen’s College, University of Oxford, he went on to study conducting with Paul Brough. He holds diplomas in organ and choral direction from the Royal College of Organists, the latter as winner of the John Brook (IAO) Memorial Prize. While in Oxford, he held positions at Christ Church Cathedral, Hertford College, and Pusey House.

A keen proponent of new and under-explored music, he has premiered and commissioned works from composers including Nick Bicat, Danyal Dhondy, Solfa Carlile, Sarah Rimkus, Grayston Ives, and others. He works regularly with the new music charity Cantata Dramatica.

Other positions have included Music Director of Wokingham Choral Society, Jubilate Chamber Choir, & St Mary's Church, Battersea.

As a writer, he regularly contributes programme notes and essays to publications, festivals, and ensembles including The Tallis Scholars.

Qualifications

MA (Oxon), DipCHD (RCO)

Selected Publications

Henry Aldrich: Sacred Choral Music, Cathedral Singers of Christ Church/Restoration Ensemble, Convivium Records, 2019, CR052