The Prebendal School appoints acclaimed musician and educator Neil Cannon as new Director of Music

The Prebendal School in Chichester has appointed accomplished musician and educator Neil Cannon as its new Director of Music, strengthening the schools long-standing commitment to musical excellence and providing new opportunities for pupils to develop their confidence, creativity and passion for music.

With more than 20 years experience as a Director of Music in schools across South London, Neil brings extensive knowledge in choral development, conducting and music education. He studied composition at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, where he developed his expertise in orchestral and choral conducting.

Throughout his career, Neil has led choirs in performances at prestigious venues including Westminster Abbey and St Stephens Basilica in Budapest. He has also established community choirs and a cappella groups and worked as Musical Director on several productions, including Les Misérables.

Most recently, Neil founded the National Schools Singing Programme for the Catholic Diocese of Portsmouth and served as interim Director of Music at St Johns Cathedral, Portsmouth.

Neil is delighted to be joining The Prebendal School, where music is an important part of school life.

Music has an extraordinary ability to bring children together, build confidence and give them a sense of achievement, said Neil Cannon. Im excited to create opportunities for every pupil to experience and enjoy music, both in and out of the classroom, and to inspire a lifelong passion for music while nurturing the next generation of musicians.

The appointment builds on The Prebendal Schools rich musical tradition, including its close relationship with Chichester Cathedral and its commitment to giving pupils opportunities to perform and develop their creative talents.

The schools Head, Alison Napier, said:

We are delighted to welcome Neil to The Prebendal School. His breadth of experience, enthusiasm and commitment to developing young musicians make him an excellent addition to our staff. We strive for excellence in every area of school life, and that means appointing exceptional teachers who can inspire children, recognise their individual strengths and help them fulfil their potential.

At the heart of Chichester, The Prebendal School combines 500 years of heritage, exceptional teaching, a rich musical tradition and individual care, nurturing confident children with a passion for lifelong learning.

The co-educational school welcomes children from Nursery through to Year 8, offering a broad and balanced education in which academic achievement sits alongside music, sport, creativity and personal development. Its flexible boarding options also provide families with the choice of occasional, weekly or more regular boarding, supporting pupils who benefit from the wider opportunities and community that boarding provides.

With its distinctive combination of heritage, opportunity and individual attention, The Prebendal School aims to bring out the best in every child; giving pupils the confidence, skills and curiosity to thrive as they move on to the next stage of their education.