Chris Clark

“Chris is a most thoughtful musician, with a clear approach to rehearsal which yields quick results. His approach is deeply considered, and he is a first-class communicator.” - Ulster Orchestra

Chris Clark currently serves as Music Director and Principal Conductor for the Central London Orchestra.

In addition to his role with the CLO, Chris is passionate about developing projects with musicians and artists from around the world. His recent work includes a recording of Copland’s Appalachian Spring and Mahler’s 4th Symphony with Igor Yuzefovich, leader of the BBC Symphony Orchestra, the world premiere of an interdisciplinary work by composer Alan Williams for the NHS during their 75th anniversary alongside Stravinsky’s The Soldier’s Tale, and an immersive art exhibition and live performance in Cairo and London with Egyptian visual artist Dina Negm.

Chris had held the position of Principal Trumpet at Orchestra Wellington and the Royal New Zealand Air Force Band and performed and toured with the Hallé, Opera North, Welsh National Opera, North Czech Philharmonic, New Zealand Opera, Royal New Zealand Ballet and New Zealand Symphony Orchestra.

Among many awards, Chris was the winner of the prestigious Dame Malvina Major Foundation Arts Excellence Award for international conducting studies, and the recipient of the Pettman DARE International Performance Scholarship, a highly sought after award for leaders in opera. Chris would also like to acknowledge the generous support of the Arts House Trust, Adam Foundation, Philip and Dianne Pattison, Waverley Fund, Todd Foundation and The Lion Foundation.

Originally from Wellington, New Zealand, Chris is a graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music, University of British Columbia and the New Zealand School of Music.