Barnard Castle School is delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Matthew Lowe as its new Director of Music from September 2026.
Matthew brings with him a wealth of experience as a performer, educator, leader and coach, including five successful years as Director of Music at Bradfield College. In recent years, he has continued his work across music education and performance through a range of freelance projects in Ireland. His appointment marks an exciting new chapter for music at Barnard Castle School, where creativity, participation and performance are already central to school life.
Originally from Yorkshire, Matthew’s musical journey began at the age of four when his mother taught him the cello. He later became a chorister at York Minster before securing a major music scholarship to Eton College. He went on to study at both the Royal College of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, building an acclaimed professional career as a cellist performing with ensembles including the BBC Symphony Orchestra, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Royal Northern Sinfonia and English National Opera.
At Barnard Castle School, music is at the heart of co-curricular life. From Chapel Choir and House Singing to orchestras, bands, productions and gala concerts, pupils of all ages are encouraged to discover their voice and experience the joy of collective music-making. The School’s musical philosophy is rooted in the belief that ‘every child is a musician’, creating an environment where creativity and participation thrive alongside high standards and aspiration.
Headmaster Mr David Cresswell said:
“Matthew is an exceptionally high-quality appointment whose philosophy aligns perfectly with Barney’s values of community, character and ambition. What stood out throughout the appointment process was his remarkable ability to inspire young people to develop confidence, resilience and ambition, and I know he will make an outstanding contribution to the life of the school.”
Matthew Lowe said:
“I’m absolutely delighted to be joining Barney and becoming part of this flourishing community. From my first conversations with the school, it was clear that Barney is defined by warmth, ambition and a genuine commitment to young people.
I’m looking forward to working with the team to create an environment where inclusivity and excellence go hand in hand; where every pupil benefits from a music education that inspires, and where the development of each individual is central to our long-term vision.
I’m hugely grateful for the opportunity to join such a vibrant community and excited to bring my passion for music education to the role, alongside a strong commitment to the wider co-curricular life of the school through hockey and cricket coaching.”
In addition to his musical leadership, Matthew brings a strong commitment to sport and youth development. He has volunteered extensively in grassroots hockey and cricket, securing funding to broaden participation and support opportunities for underrepresented groups. His belief in the transformative power of co-curricular education strongly reflects Barnard Castle School’s holistic approach to developing well-rounded and well-grounded young people.
The School also confirmed that George Ford will continue in a new role as Assistant Director of Music, working closely with Matthew Lowe to lead the next chapter of Barney Music. Well known across the region for his musical leadership and community work, George continues to play a central role in the School’s thriving musical life.
Editor’s note
Matthew’s appointment comes at a time when the importance of creativity and the arts in education is receiving increasing national attention. A recent study by University College London (UCL), analysing data from more than 3,500 adults, highlighted the powerful connection between engagement in the creative arts and improved health and wellbeing. The research found that regular participation in activities such as music, reading, painting and cultural experiences not only boosts wellbeing but may also slow biological ageing.
In an increasingly busy world, Barnard Castle School believes the arts provide something deeply important: moments of connection, reflection, imagination and shared human experience. Through its vibrant musical culture and broad co-curricular programme, the school remains committed to ensuring every child has the opportunity to discover and develop their creative passions.
