John Ellis

John Ellis, born 1943, qualified in Medicine at Manchester University and then, specialising in Paediatrics, held an NHS Consultant post until retiring in 2002. He has a life-long interest in playing the piano and organ, obtaining the ARCO whilst working in Bolton, with tuition from William Morgan FRCO, of Bolton Parish Church.

John has held a number of church organist posts - including, since 1997, St Mary's Parish Church in Prestwich, Manchester) - and also finds himself rehearsing and accompanying a variety of singers and choral groups.

He commenced composing seriously comparatively late, and mainly for the organ, with pieces ranging from church voluntaries to recital items. Ronald Frost has recorded some of his works and Oecumuse (now fagus-music.com) and Animus Music Publishing have published a selection.

His choral works - anthems, cantatas, etc - have been performed by a number of choirs in the North West and recently he has increasingly composed for soprano with organ/piano accompaniment.

Recent delights have been to receive First Prize in the Edinburgh Organ Academy 2004 Organ Composition Competition and to be awarded a commission by SPNM/Heritage Lottery Fund for the newly restored St Botolph Organ, Aldgate, London.

Listen to John's music | Contact John | www.john-ellis.org.uk