Senior School pupils had the pleasure of hearing from renowned composer Prof. Paul Mealor in the Senior Library at the fifth event in the Agora Lecture Series. 

Prof. Mealor is one of the world's most performed living composers and has been described by the New York Times as “the most important composer to have emerged in Welsh choral music since William Mathias”. 

Currently the Chair in Composition at the University of Aberdeen, Prof. Mealor was catapulted to international fame in April 2011, when some 2.5 billion people heard his Motet, ‘Ubi Caritas et Amor’, at the Royal Wedding Ceremony of Prince William and Catherine Middleton at Westminster Abbey. 

The lecture was opened by Henry J (S5) who played Chopin's Fantasie-Impromptu. Prof. Mealor shared details of his accomplished career and life in music and answered questions from the audience. After questions from the audience, Kory B (S5) took the lecture to a close with a strathspey called Feeding the Midges followed by a reel called Seann Truibhas Uilleachain. 

Mr Clement, Senior School Librarian said: “Prof. Mealor had the audience enthralled from beginning to end. It was a wonderful opportunity for the pupils to hear from such an accomplished composer; their thoughtful and intelligent questions highlight the importance they place on music.” 

Mr Pearson, Teacher of Music said: “It was fascinating to hear from Prof. Mealor about his approach to composition and his musical achievements. The pupils, who were all forthcoming with their questions, learnt so much and have enjoyed becoming more familiar with his music.”

Agora Lecture with Paul Mealor
Royal wedding composer speaks at the fifth Agora Lecture