SIMON IBLE, the man who has done much to heighten Tavistock?s profile as a venue for top quality classical concerts, has been appointed full time director of music at the University of Plymouth.
He has been musical director of the University of Plymouth Orchestra and Choral Society since 1999. The new role of Director of Music extends his work to include the development of a programme of musical events that will form part of the University?s developing cultural calendar.
He will co-ordinate all University-supported musical events in and around Plymouth, including the on-going sponsorship of the Ten Tors Orchestra, the professional chamber music orchestra of which he is artistic director and conductor.
Simon said: ?This is a very exciting appointment for me and, I hope, for Plymouth and the region. It draws on 20 years? of experience, not just as a conductor but my work in education and as an arts administrator. I am looking forward to the challenge.?
Simon moved to West Devon in 1997, having spent the previous ten years as director of the Bath City Orchestra. As well as his work with the Ten Tors Orchestra he is well known in the South West as conductor of the Two Moors Festival Chorus, Wells Festival Orchestra and East Cornwall Bach Choir.
Under his leadership the Ten Tors Orchestra has grown into an established orchestra in West Devon with a nucleus of 50 players.
Simon is also the director of the new Tavistock Sings Music Festival.