HPP does not provide an official accompanist, but it has the support of all the local accompanists named below, all happy and ready to support any performance!
If you need an accompanist for your performance, you’re responsible for booking and paying them, and arranging rehearsals directly with them. We recommend you contact them as soon as possible, as these guys are good and they book up quick! We also recommend that you provide them with a copy of the sheet music at least four weeks before the festival begins.
Steve Dummer
Steve is a renowned clarinetist and saxophonist, pianist, music educator, and conductor/musical director of numerous orchestras and music projects, including Horsham Symphony Orchestra, the Ensemble Reza Community Orchestra, CoMA Sussex, Kidenza, the Stane Street Sinfonietta, and Talkestra, the last two of which he also founded. He is a regular tutor and conductor at the Dartington International Summer School.
Helen Wharmby
Helen is an experienced instrumental and vocal accompanist for music grade and diploma exams, festival performances, and auditions. She teaches piano at Christ's Hospital School and is a rehearsal pianist and conductor for several local choirs.
Jeremy Weaver
Jeremy is the Director of Music at St Mary's Church, and was Head of Music at various schools for over three decades. He is a composer as well as an organist, pianist, and prizewinning accompanist who has worked for numerous choral societies, groups and soloists.