John Ellis was born in 1952, brought up in Yorkshire and Aberdeen and graduated in 1974 with a degree in mathematics from the University of Aberdeen. He worked for a series of major firms in financial services, mostly in senior technical or management roles, until he retired in 2015. Music has been a significant part of his life, both as a performer (choral singer) and an attendee at concerts, operatic performances and the ballet.

John is the current Chair of the Board and, drawing on his professional experience, takes particular responsiblity for overseeing the charity’s financial operations and guiding decisions relating to remuneration and HR.

As a trustee I aim to use the experience I have gained to help ensure the high standards of governance necessary in a charity, whilst supporting work that enables disadvantaged people of all types and ages to benefit from the joy that music can bring.