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David Ward
Biography
David Ward was born in Sheffield. He studied with Cyril Smith at the Royal College of Music, London, where he is now a professor. Further studies included work with Katharina Wolpe in London and Nadia Boulanger in Paris. David has performed throughout the United Kingdom and abroad, including South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and the United States.
From an early age David was drawn to the music of Mozart and he has played and recorded much of Mozart's keyboard music to critical acclaim. David also plays the music of Haydn and many of the lesser known composers of the second half of the eighteenth century. This interest has led David to play the type of instruments which the composers knew and he now plays the harpsichord and clavichord. He also owns two fortepianos.
As a conductor David has directed his own orchestra La Spiritata and he has worked with the New Sadler's Wells Opera Company as well as The Opera School Wales. More recently he was the assistant conductor for the touring company Opera Box. David also conducts the Linden Baroque Orchestra in London as well as several choirs across London.
As a teacher and lecturer David has participated in summer schools and conferences, study days for pianists and lecture/recitals for music clubs and organisations such as the Incorporated Society of Musicians and the European Piano Teachers' Association. In addition to the Royal College of Music, London, David is also on the staff of the Birmingham Conservatoire and is an examiner for the Associated Board.
David has contributed a module on early keyboard instruments to the MTPP course at Reading University and a chapter to the Associated Board's Performer's Guide to Music of the Classical Period. He is also editorial adviser on the new edition of the Beethoven Piano Sonatas which includes supplying suggested fingerings.