Liverpool Philharmonic has announced the appointment of Matthew Roughley as its new Youth Choir Director, leading one of Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company’s flagship performance ensembles and helping shape the next generation of musicians across the Liverpool City Region.

A nationally renowned conductor, vocal arranger and youth music specialist, Matthew Roughley is recognised as one of the UK's leading choral educators. His current roles include Conductor of National Youth Choir (9–15) and Director of Hallé Youth Training Choir. Having begun his own musical journey through youth music services in Greater Manchester, Matthew has dedicated his career to creating high-quality, inclusive opportunities for young singers and championing the transformative impact of ensemble music-making.

Matthew Roughley said: "I am absolutely delighted to be joining the team as Director of Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Choir. Youth Company is renowned for inspiring young people and helping young musicians to thrive – an ethos that I wholeheartedly share.

"To be part of the next chapter of this well-established choir, developing young choral singers from across the region and working alongside a talented team, is a true privilege and an opportunity I can't wait to begin."

Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company is the largest community of young musicians and singers outside of formal education in the North West. Through a carefully designed progression pathway for 7-21 year olds, more than 400 young people rehearse each week and benefit from regular performances at Liverpool Philharmonic Hall, opportunities to work alongside professional musicians and industry experts, and the chance to explore music across a wide range of genres within a welcoming and supportive community. A further 500 young people access events and projects such as the annual Music Industry Careers Fest. At the heart of the programme are Liverpool Philharmonic's Youth and Children’s Choirs, which opportunities to develop choral singing, wider musical skills, build confidence, form lasting friendships and experience the transformative power of singing together through to adulthood including some progressing into the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Choir.

Vanessa Reed, Chief Executive of Liverpool Philharmonic, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Matthew Roughley as our new Youth Choir Director. Matthew is one of the most respected youth choral leaders in the UK. Having benefited from youth music opportunities in the North West himself, he brings a deep understanding of the impact that high-quality musical experiences can have on young people, helping them develop confidence, creativity and a lifelong love of music.

"Our Youth Choirs, alongside our wider Youth Company programme, play an important role in helping young people develop their passion for music and shape the future of our city region. We look forward to the vision and energy Matthew will bring to the role. We know he will build on the strong foundations already in place while creating new opportunities for young singers across our region to grow and experience the extraordinary power of singing together."

Matthew Hamilton, Director of Choirs and Singing at Liverpool Philharmonic said: “I’m so happy that the young singers across the Liverpool City Region will have the opportunity to learn from and work with Matthew Roughley. His inspirational, collaborative, and generous approach to music making will build on the choir's strong foundations, inspire our members to achieve great things, and create unforgettable musical experiences for performers and audiences alike. We are very fortunate to have him joining the choral team at Liverpool Philharmonic.”

The appointment reflects Liverpool Philharmonic's continued commitment to investing in the next generation of musicians and ensuring that young people across the Liverpool City Region can access outstanding musical opportunities. Through Youth Company, Liverpool Philharmonic will continue to develop inclusive pathways for young performers, composers, songwriters and music creators, helping to nurture talent, strengthen communities and contribute to the region's vibrant cultural future.

To find out more about Liverpool Philharmonic Youth Company, including FAQs, information about applying and auditions, additional membership benefits, and what is on offer for the 2026/27 academic year, please read the 2026/27 prospectus here.