The Purcell School has announced the appointment of Dr Daniel Fardon as Head of Composition & Contemporary Music.

He will take up the post at the UK's oldest specialist music school in September 2026, succeeding Alison Cox, who retires at the end of the academic year after nearly four decades in the role.

Award winning

Currently a teacher of composition at the school, Daniel Fardon is an internationally respected composer, educator and arts leader.

His music has been recognised with both an Ivor Novello Award and the Royal Philharmonic Society Composition Prize, featured on BBC Radio 3 and commissioned by leading ensembles including the London Symphony Orchestra, Birmingham Contemporary Music Group and the Carducci Quartet.

He also lectured in composition at the University of Birmingham and holds a PhD in Composition and is the Artistic Director of Hackney Music Live, a charity dedicated to presenting world-class musicians in East London.

Widley respected

Speaking about the appointment, Paul Bambrough, Principal of The Purcell School, told 4BR: "As an existing member of staff, Daniel is widely respected by both colleagues and students who I know will be delighted by this news.

The interview panel was unanimous in its view that, under Daniel's leadership, The Purcell School will continue to be the leading institution for the training of young composers for many years to come."

His music has been recognised with both an Ivor Novello Award and the Royal Philharmonic Society Composition Prize, featured on BBC Radio 3 and commissioned by leading ensembles4BR

Honoured

In response Dr Daniel Fardon said: "I'm deeply honoured to take up the post and committed to developing a world-class, forward-looking department that enables every student to thrive."

The Purcell School took the opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding contribution of Alison Cox, whose leadership as Head of Composition they stated, "has shaped generations of young composers," and "leaves an extraordinary legacy."