Staff

VaCO is run by a small and dedicated team. They are:

Artistic Director - Xenophon Kelsey MBE
Xen (pronounced Zen) founded VaCO in 1994 with the aim of addressing as many of the gaps in existing musical training and experience for young musicians as possible.  His vision for youth music making and his dedication to improving the breadth of opportunity for young musicians led him to be awarded the MBE in the Queens Birthday Honours 2009.  For more on this remarkable individual who is the heart and soul of VaCO and who has been the inspiration for thousands of young musicians see Xen's website here.

Orchestral Manager - Jane Lomax FTCL LTCL RGN
Jane is the engine room of VaCO, providing tireless year-round administrative support to the organisation and pastoral support on courses (Jane is also a registered nurse).  A graduate of Trinity College of Music, Jane combines her work for VaCO with a successful career as a freelance bassonist, playing in orchestras, chamber ensembles, and teaching.

Administration & Development Manager - Max Puller LGSMD
The newest member of the team, Max is responsible for the recruitment and retention of student musicians and general smooth-running of all of the courses. Max has worked at a number of independent schools, cathedrals and churches as organist, accompanist and boarding house master, and he is currently studying for his undergraduate degree (BA in Music) at Durham University, as well as completing a Masters degree (MEd in Pastoral Care, Guidance and Pupil Support) with the University of Aberdeen. Max is also Accompanist for the Royal Air Force Choir, as well as accompanying students in tutorials, examinations and recitals at Durham University.

Forthcoming Courses

VaCO Easter Course 2012 7-14 April 2012 Yorkshire Dales & North York Moors - The Jonas Centre, Redmire

VaCO Summer 1 Course 21-28 July 2012 Yorkshire Dales & North York Moors - The Jonas Centre, Redmire

VaCO Summer 2 Course 24 August - 1 September 2012 Somerset & the Cotswolds

VaCO Christmas Course 27-30 December 2012 Yorkshire Dales

Forthcoming Concerts

St Andrew Church, ALDBOROUGH Tuesday 10 April

St Mary's Church, KIRKBY LONSDALE Wednesday 11 April

STOKESLEY PARISH CHURCH Thursday 12 April

St Cuthbert's Church, PATELEY BRIDGE Friday 13 April

St Andrew's Church, AYSGARTH Saturday 14 April