The Priory Singers are delighted to welcome Peter Banks as our new Musical Director. Peter brings a wealth of choral and musical experience that will see the choir continue to flourish and grow.

A graduate of St John's College, Oxford, where he spent three years performing with the chapel choir, Peter has deep roots in the choral tradition. He has served as Musical Director for over ten major theatrical productions with the Lyric Operatic Society, including Carmen, Die Fledermaus, and Fiddler on the Roof, twice performing at the prestigious Buxton Gilbert & Sullivan Festival. For over a decade, Peter worked with Focus Theatre in Cheltenham, directing numerous productions and cabaret shows.

As a composer, Peter has written extensively for choir and voice, including a complete mass setting and numerous art songs, with many works enjoying successful performances across the UK. His versatility spans classical repertoire, sacred music, and contemporary styles.

Based in Newport since 1996, Peter has been an active member of the local music community, teaching piano and singing with great success, and serving as accompanist for countless recitals, concerts, and worship services. He is deeply involved with St Julians Baptist Church in Newport.

Peter is excited to build upon Stephen Benavente's remarkable twenty six-year legacy and to work with The Priory Singers as we continue our tradition of excellence in choral performance.