York Minster

New Director of Music for York Minster

Published Tuesday 12th February 2008 by Alix Peacock

The Dean and Chapter of York have today announced that a new Director of Music has been appointed.  Robert Sharpe will succeed Philip Moore in this post when Mr Moore retires in July 2008. 

Robert Sharpe is 36 and has been the Director of Music at Truro Cathedral in Cornwall for the past five-and-a-half years. Before this, he held positions at Lichfield and St Albans Cathedrals. His hobbies include architecture, food, interesting wines and furniture. Robert is married to Polly who is a pianist and they have two small children.

Robert Sharpe said “I am very excited about becoming part of the Minster community at this time and working with the organist John Scott Whiteley as well as having the privilege of succeeding Philip Moore whose music I greatly admire.”

The Dean of York, the Very Reverend Keith Jones said “The Chapter is delighted to have appointed Robert Sharpe as Director of Music. He will bring many gifts and an exciting vision for the future of the Minster’s musical life based on a wealth of experience. We look forward to welcoming Robert, Polly and the family to York in the summer”

The role of Director of Music at the Minster includes responsibility for the forty-eight choristers and twelve men of the choir, and all music sung and played in the Minster’s worship.  Robert Sharpe will be only the fifth holder of the post since 1897, and follows such distinguished musicians as Thomas Tertius Noble, Sir Edward Bairstow and Dr Francis Jackson CBE, as well as Philip Moore who has been at York since 1983.