Description
Born in Hawick, in the beautiful Scottish Borders, Helen enjoyed a rich and diverse musical upbringing, becoming Principal Clarinet of both the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland and National Youth Chamber Orchestra of Scotland. Former Head Girl of Hawick High School, Helen gained a place to study at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester; a Virtuosi Society Bursary enabled additional Clarinet study with Gervase de Peyer in Washington DC. After graduating, she went on to follow an exciting and varied career in and around Manchester, particularly involved in church music, whilst raising a young family. Teaching, performing and directing across a huge spectrum of styles, Helen worked for a number of years as a Director of Worship in Didsbury and has directed the music for live BBC broadcasts, including her own compositions and arrangements, on Radio 4. She has recently conducted and arranged music for BBC Songs of Praise in Edinburgh. Helen is delighted to have returned to her homeland with her husband, organist Simon Leach, and their children, and is loving her new lifestyle in this scenic part of the world, combining instrumental and theory teaching with composition. She has composed music for recent royal milestones, which Simon has played at Canongate Kirk in Edinburgh.
Helen Comments: Prelude for a Royal Swan was composed especially for my husband, Simon, to play as a Reflection at the opening of the morning service at Canongate Kirk, Edinburgh, 6th February 2022, marking the 70th Anniversary of the Accession to the Throne of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. With an undulating accompaniment flowing through different harmonies, the expansive melody seeks to portray the enduring beauty, dignity and unwavering commitment of Her Majesty. Canongate Kirk serves as Chapel to Holyrood House and Edinburgh Castle and The Queen herself, as well as other principal members of the Royal Family, helped to fund the building of the outstanding Frobenius organ: the Great Principal 8’ is reckoned to be one of the very finest organ stops in the country.
