Biography

Simon Lole has spent a lifetime in music, starting as a chorister at St Paul’s Cathedral in London. He received his musical training at the Guildhall School of Music and King’s College, London University. He spent many years as a professional church musician, culminating in positions as Director of Music at Sheffield Cathedral and then Salisbury Cathedral, and running the Chapel Choir and teaching at Jesus College, Cambridge University.

Since 2005, he has worked as a freelance musician…musical director, composer, arranger, conductor and organist, as well as record producer and workshop leader.

He is increasingly in demand by the major record companies as an arranger, performer and conductor, particularly in the field of  classical-crossover music. He has been musical director and arranger for All Angels, Laura Wright, Aled Jones, Hayley Westenra (with whom he has toured Japan), Will Martin, Blake, Camilla Kerslake, The Choirgirl Isabel, The German Choirboys, Russell Watson and Celeste. Recently he has been working with acclaimed music producer, Guy Chambers, orchestrating a new album for Matteo Bocelli.

He has worked regularly with the City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, conducting sessions for Universal Records, as well as with many distinguished London session musicians.

As a choral specialist and workshop leader with both children and adults, Simon has travelled the world and is in great demand for his inspiring leadership and infectious humour.

As a choral director, Simon also works regularly for the BBC. He was one of the main Musical Directors for BBC Radio 4’s “The Daily Service”, was vocal coach and accompanist for BBC Radio 2’s “Young Chorister of the Year” competition for many years, and  is also a regular conductor and accompanist on BBC TV’s “Songs of Praise”. He directs ITV’s Christmas Eve Carol broadcast and since 2023 has been Music Producer for BBC 2’s “Carols from King’s’ broadcast.

Simon Lole has also worked extensively as a classical record producer, recording choirs including York Minster, Blackburn Cathedral, Rugby School and Jesus College, Cambridge.