Warner Classics & Jazz

Biography

Edward Higginbottom received his early musical and academic training in Cambridge. From 1970 to 1972 he studied in Paris, working with Marie-Claire Alain, and pursuing his research in the field of French classical music. From this period stems major entries on French composers for The New Grove Dictionary of Music, editions of Couperin's chamber music, and activities related to French musical policy. Since his appointment as Director of Music at New College Oxford in 1976, the Choir has gained international recognition, in particular through its extensive touring and recording activities (the Choir has over 60 recordings - of which Erato's Agnus Dei, Music of inner harmony is their latest recording - made under the direction or supervision of Dr Higginbottom; they have often included world premiere recordings, in which Edward Higginbottom was also responsible for the new editions used).

Edward Higginbottom's work at Oxford is divided between directing New College's world-famous choir and teaching in the University Music Faculty. He continues to contribute to scholarship in the area of French classical music, and has been active in advising the French Ministry of Culture on its policy of reintroducing choir schools in France. For this work he has been honoured with the decoration of "Officier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres".