RICHARD ASHDOWNE [b.1977]
Richard Ashdowne was born in London in 1977. He grew up in mid-Kent and was educated at the Judd School, Tonbridge. He read Literae Humaniores at New College, Oxford, where he graduated in 2000. At present he is reading for a Masters degree in Latin and Romance Linguistics at the University of Oxford.
He is very much a part-time amateur musician, not having had any formal training in composition or direction, but he is a great believer in enthusiasm, fun and enjoyment in music-making. His musical interests lie primarily in vocal, piano and organ music, although he has been known to turn his hand to other areas. He has directed a number of choral groups in Oxford, and was the founder of the QuadWranglers, a variation on the theme of barber's shop singing. He is particularly interested in the music of the Catholic church, and of liturgy and hymns in general.
Other interests include the theatre, where he has become involved in the technical side of student productions. When time permits, he also enjoys canoeing, cooking and relaxing.