The Musical Directors

Formally Head of Performing Arts at Colchester Sixth Form College, Nigel started the CVYO along with a number of other youth and amateur groups. He studied at Sheffield University and has taught music in Essex for over 40 years. He is known locally for his conducting and his compositions, which include three symphonies, two concertos as well as chamber music of many kinds.

He was presented in 1996 with the 'Arts for All' award by the Town of Colchester and and MBE in 2012 for Services to Musical Education.

Fiona is a very experienced woodwind teacher who works for Essex Music Services as well as Colchester Institute. She performs on the saxophone as a member of Saxology with whom she has recorded and broadcast nationally. As well as her involvement with Colne Valley Youth Orchestra she conducts Flames Orchestra and the Phoenix wind band for the Brentwood Orchestras for young musicians.