The Diocese of Nottingham is pleased to announce the appointment of Sam Grimes as Choral Director. Sam will visit schools across the Diocese as part of its Schools Singing Programme.

Before going to university, Sam studied Classical Guitar under John Forsyth MBE in County Durham. During this time, Sam was also a member of Durham County Youth Choir where his love for choral music began. He then studied music at the University of Nottingham focusing on composition and conducting. Continuing his musical studies, Sam completed a Master’s Degree in vocal and choral composition at the University of Nottingham. During this time, one of his compositions was awarded the Bernard Slee Opera Prize. At Nottingham, Sam studied conducting and composition under Calum Fraser, Elizabeth Kelly and Mervyn Cooke and conducted the University Chamber Choir, the University Choir and the student chamber choir Viva Voce. As well as singing in these ensembles, Sam also played in and conducted the University Philharmonic, University String Orchestra and University Sinfonia. Now back in Nottingham, he is now looking forward to the opportunity to work with young people to give them the opportunity to be involved in the musical life of the church.