Introducing
Mr Chris Gill
Head of Music Performance
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My goal is to guide and inspire our students to prepare and deliver numerous performances, and to promote a deep love and understanding of music.
The Downe House Music Department is delighted to welcome one of the newest members of the team, Chris Gill. Chris has accumulated over twentyfive years of experience as a music teacher and conductor, leaving his mark on the musical landscape in the UK. Throughout his career, Chris has directed performances with orchestras, choirs, and opera companies, gaining recognition for his exceptional work with Heritage Opera, a professional touring company he founded in 2006. His influence extends beyond the classroom and concert platform, as he has written several music textbooks, including The A Level Music Study Guide, Harmonising Bach Chorales and the Let’s Get Musical series. Chris’ creative flair is also apparent in the critically-acclaimed, all-female musical comedy GRRRLZ, for which he wrote the book, lyrics and music. The musical premiered in Oxford and London in 2021, further solidifying Chris’s reputation as a talented and accomplished artist. In his personal life, Chris has been happily married
to Serenna Wagner, an opera singer and neurologic music therapist, for twenty years. Together, they reside in south Oxfordshire, accompanied by their two children. Anticipating a new chapter in his professional journey, Chris was eager to join the expansive Music Department at Downe House. Having previously led various smaller departments in independent girls’ schools, he is drawn to the academic atmosphere our Music Department. Chris is excited about collaborating with fellow music teachers, each bringing their unique specialisations to the table. Chris also sets his sights on opportunities for growth with different partnerships to increase the versatility of the pupils. Motivated by a genuine passion for music education, Chris aims to show his enthusiasm for a diverse range of musical genres to his pupils. His ultimate goal is to guide and inspire students in preparing and delivering numerous performances, promoting a deep love and understanding of music.
“When I reflect on my own musical education, I am grateful for the inspiration and knowledge of two exceptional music teachers who nurtured my curiosity about the subject and instilled in me the ambition to evolve as a music teacher and conductor. I would like to pass on that inspiration and knowledge to the pupils at Downe House.” Downe House, Cold Ash, Berkshire RG18 9JJ T: +44(0)1635 200286 | www.downehouse.net