Susan Collier - leader

Susan found her passion for conducting by directing The Latymer School Chamber Orchestra. Within her first year, and under her baton, the orchestra won the ‘Outstanding Orchestra’ award at The National Festival of Music and Youth, as well as the ‘Best Chamber Orchestra’ award at the International Festival of Music and Youth in Vienna.

"Their performance of Mozart’s Divertimento in D, K136, was articulate enough to have been professional. It was also thoroughly musical, shaped by a talented conductor, Susan Collier"

The Independent, Schools Prom Guest Appearance, Royal Albert Hall

Throughout her career, she has directed the Chamber Orchestra at The Royal Academy of Music, in their Junior Department. Susan loves conducting the standard Chamber Orchestra repertoire, and is equally ready to be inspired by new pieces. Fellow RAM colleague Robert Turrell introduced her to the music of contemporary composer Tony Osborne and susan subsequently directed Tony’s piece ‘Jazz Contrasts,’ as well as his version of Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet Suite, the latter of which was premiered by the RAM JD Chamber Orchestra in 2003.
Having taught violin students from Northern Spain, Susan was invited to Getxo Conservatoire,Bizkaia, to direct a five day string orchestra course.

"Susan Collier is a brilliant conductor to work with, and she is one of the most high spirited and enthusiastic people I have ever met. She injects so much emotion and confidence into our music making, and she includes everyone when making decisions about what to do next in a piece. Susan brings fun and joy into every rehearsal, and I am very glad that I have the chance to work with her."

Henry Bentley – RAMJD Chamber Orchestra member

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"Susan's rehearsals are always lively! Her infectious enthusiasm is reflected in the atmosphere of Chamber Orchestra, producing relaxed and focused rehearsals. As well as paying keen attention to detail, she invites us to put forward ideas -helping us to think about any problems independently. Susan has innumerable original ways of maintaining the highest concentration levels in rehearsals. She is perceptive in understanding when focus has been lost, and always devises ways in which it can be regained -very impressive with an orchestra of teenagers! Chamber orchestra concerts are always polished, full of energy and really enjoyable occasions. To sum up... Susan must be one of the most welcoming, approachable and rigorous teachers I've ever met."

'Cecelia Stinton – RAMJD Chamber Orchestra member

"The rehearsals were intense and the pace was fast. I had to learn quickly, but it was worth every moment of concentration. It was the best week of my life,and I shall never forget it!"

Spanish student