Early Life and Training
Howard Rogerson brings a lifetime of musical experience, warmth and enthusiasm to the Promenade Concert Orchestra.
Born in Morley, Yorkshire, Howard studied at Huddersfield School of Music, now the University of Huddersfield, before going on to the Royal Manchester College of Music. From there, he built a distinguished career as a clarinettist. Over the years, he performed with major orchestras and opera companies, including D’Oyly Carte Opera, Welsh National Opera and English National Opera. He also appeared with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and English Music Theatre, touring throughout the UK and overseas.
Founding Member of Opera North
In 1978, Howard returned north to become a founder member of the Orchestra of Opera North. He spent ten years as a full-time member of the orchestra, followed by twelve years freelancing with the company.
Alongside his orchestral work, Howard also founded and directed several chamber ensembles. In addition, he performed in solo and chamber recitals across the country and in London. Meanwhile, he took part in BBC broadcasts and recordings. Music Serenade, the Opera North chamber ensemble he founded and managed, received particular praise. In fact, the BBC described its recordings of Mozart’s wind octets as among the finest available.
Teaching and Community Music
Howard later combined his performing career with teaching for North Yorkshire Music Service. There, he shared his knowledge and love of music with younger generations.
For fifteen years, he also conducted Settle Orchestral Society, helping it grow into a valued community orchestra. During this time, the society also presented choral and operatic performances with the Langcliffe Singers. This choir was founded by his wife, Valerie Baulard.
Bringing the Promenade Concert Orchestra to Morecambe
In 2006, Howard and Valerie moved to Morecambe, a town they had known and loved throughout their lives. Rather than retiring quietly, Howard set about creating something special for the area. He wanted a light music orchestra to bring elegant, entertaining and uplifting live music to local audiences. The result was the Promenade Concert Orchestra.
Since then, Howard has conducted and presented more than 60 concerts with the PCO. He has welcomed over 15,000 audience members and brought more than 650 pieces of music to life. His programmes celebrate the timeless appeal of light orchestral music, from Viennese waltzes to Palm Court favourites. They also include music from opera, ballet, stage and screen.
Awards and Recognition
In recognition of his cultural contribution to Morecambe, Howard received the Eric Morecambe Sunshine Culture Award. He was also given a Highly Commended Entertainment Award in 2014.
Life Beyond the Podium
Away from the concert platform, Howard is a Circuit Steward, Worship Leader and musician at the local Methodist Church. In his free time, he enjoys gardening, walking, cycling, swimming and, naturally, attending concerts and opera.
Through the Promenade Concert Orchestra, Howard continues to share his lifelong passion for music with audiences in Morecambe and beyond. As a result, his concerts remain welcoming, memorable and full of musical enjoyment.
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