Music and the Choir

James O'Donnell

James O’Donnell is Organist and Master of the Choristers of Westminster Abbey. He is responsible for the direction of the music at the daily choral services as well as the great state occasions for which the Abbey is renowned. He also conducts The Choir of Westminster Abbey in its extensive programme of concerts, broadcasts, recordings and tours.

Robert Quinney

Robert Quinney has been Sub-Organist of Westminster Abbey since 2004. In addition to his work at the Abbey he has a busy freelance career as soloist, ensemble player, and writer on music. His recent double disc of organ music from Westminster Cathedral was Instrumental Disc of the Month in BBC Music, earned a 5-star review in the French journal Diapason, and was an Editor’s Choice in Gramophone: ‘Alongside his impeccable performances, Quinney’s greatest achievement is to produce music-making which really communicates itself to the listener.’

James McVinnie

James McVinnie is the Assistant Organist of Westminster Abbey. He has held Organ Scholarships at St Albans Cathedral, Clare College, Cambridge (where he read music), and St Paul’s Cathedral. He is the Organ Tutor at Dulwich College and Director of Music at St Andrew’s, Holborn.

Samuel Rathbone

Samuel Rathbone is the Organ Scholar of Westminster Abbey. He was previously Organ Scholar of St Marylebone Parish Church, where his duties involved accompanying the ten-voice professional choir and teaching piano at St Marylebone School for Girls.