David Budd & Chris Gardner
We are lucky to have two experienced joint conductors, and long term members of the orchestra leading our musical direction.
David Budd has conducted ACO since 2003 including as Principal Conductor till 2017. He started his musical apprenticeship aged 6 as a chorister and later went on to learn the trumpet, when not conducting he joins our brass section. After a short break he has recently returned to conducting having retired from a career in teaching and IT consultancy.
Chris Gardner, was our principal conductor from 2017-2025. The son of composer John Gardner his musical training began early at the Royal College of Music Junior Department. His career was primarily spent in the Performing Right Society, as well as continuing his work as a composer, timpanist, accompanist, conductor and clarinettist. He has supported many local musical groups including choirs and performing groups.
David Budd has conducted ACO since 2003 including as Principal Conductor till 2017. He started his musical apprenticeship aged 6 as a chorister and later went on to learn the trumpet, when not conducting he joins our brass section. After a short break he has recently returned to conducting having retired from a career in teaching and IT consultancy.
Chris Gardner, was our principal conductor from 2017-2025. The son of composer John Gardner his musical training began early at the Royal College of Music Junior Department. His career was primarily spent in the Performing Right Society, as well as continuing his work as a composer, timpanist, accompanist, conductor and clarinettist. He has supported many local musical groups including choirs and performing groups.
