Winchester Cathedral Chapter is pleased to announce that Andrew Lucas has accepted its invitation to extend his tenure as Interim Director of Music by a year, to July 2026. This will allow the Cathedral time to develop its aspirations for continued excellence in worship and music.
Dean Catherine says, ‘Andrew has settled into his role with enthusiasm and has quickly gained the respect and trust of many around him. We have important work to do with him to develop our choirs and to bring together and consult those who care about the future of our choral tradition. The Chapter is grateful that Andrew has stepped up to help with this important work of transition.’
In this period important decisions will be made after due consultation, not least about who will be appointed the Director of Music in 2026. The Cathedrals Music Trust has agreed to support this process.
One of Andrew’s most important tasks will be to recruit additional Lay Clerks, aiming to restore the ‘back row’ to the full complement of twelve. He has recommended that advertising these posts will be most effective in the early New Year, which will also allow a little longer to build up the team of excellent musicians that he directs.
Andrew Lucas says, ‘I was pleased to be asked by the Dean and Chapter to remain as Interim Director of Music for two academic years until July 2026. Since September I have enjoyed getting to know the choristers, musicians and the community in Winchester and have been delighted by the warmth of their welcome, so I am very happy to accept this invitation. I look forward to working with the cathedral team and making music in worship in this wonderful place.’