Chris Gray is the Artistic Director of Scottish Opera’s Youth Company and a Senior Lecturer at the University of Aberdeen. Chris has worked extensively throughout the UK and Europe as a conductor of youth and amateur ensembles.

Carole Sneddon is a graduate of the RSAMD (now RCS) in brass specialising in trombone and she has over thirty years experience as a trombone player in musical theatre and orchestral settings working across Scotland.

Currently a brass instructor with Aberdeenshire Council, Carole is also a founding member of North East Community Music where she is the musical director for both the senior and youth orchestras. Carole recently completed a conducting course at the RNCM.

Faith Ockwell is a Seattle native and has been a resident of Aberdeen since September 2021.

She has a Bachelor’s Degree from Pacific Lutheran University in Music Education and a Master’s Degree in Musicology and Composition from the University of Aberdeen. Faith has taught Orchestra, Choir, and private Violin lessons for over two decades. She has also spent time performing professionally as a Violinist and chorus singer.

Faith is supported in her role as conductor by Stephanie Colley, owner of String Studio, and teacher at Albyn School.

Aden is a local musician and teacher and has been Chair of the Aberdeen City Orchestra since 2016. He is thrilled that ACO is able to provide these wonderful ensemble opportunities for young musicians in and around the Aberdeen area.

Experienced musicians from the Aberdeen City Orchestra, many of whom are instrumental teachers, attend weekly to support the Youth Ensemble, including our Chair and Youth Ensemble Coordinator, Aden Mazur.

We are lucky to be supported by other highly experienced musicians and educators, including Natalie Kilgallen, Stephanie Colley, Lucy Webster, Tim Tricker, Laurie Rominger and Sam Paul.