ArtistInfo

John E. Bethell

p, org,
Musician
A.k.a. John Bethell

John Bethell started his musical career at six as a member of the choir of St Clement's in Urmston. He went on to study organ and piano with George William Hilditch and held the post of organist and choirmaster in a number of churches in Manchester. (1953 - 1972) Joining the BBC in 1957, John was appointed Music Librarian in 1961 a position he held until 1990. During this time he travelled extensively with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra working with hundreds of distinguished artists and conductors across the world. For a number of years he was also Concert Manager. John has contributed significantly to music on the island since 1955, so much so that in 1966 he was invited to become a member of the Isle of Man Arts Council by His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor. The following year saw the foundation of the Manx Festival Chorus and his appointment as Artistic Director and Conductor. It was with the Chorus in 1968 that the first ever complete performance of Messiah was given on the Isle of Man with international artists taking part. Under John's direction and tutelage the choir now has a wide and varied repertoire. John is Chairman of the Erin Arts Centre (1971 ) and a founder member of the Liaison Management Committee of the Gaiety Theatre. In 1975 he founded the Mananan International Festival of Music and the Arts of which he is Director. In 1993 he founded the Latour de France International Festival of Music and the Arts. John is the Founder and Director of the Mananan International Festivals which includes the Lionel Tertis International Viola Festival & Competition and the Barbirolli International Oboe Festival & Competition. John continues his extensive involvement in all kinds of music on the island. He is Chairman of the Manx Ballet Company, Vice President of Rushen Silver Band and Galeforce young persons music/theatre group. John was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Music in 1988 and in the 2001 New Year Honours List he was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for his services to music.

Instruments

• Piano
• Organ

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