David Francis
Fortepiano, Harpsichord, Organ
David Francis combines an active performing life with work as an educationalist. As a harpsichordist his extensive career spans the many facets of the instrument, with his directing, recital and concerto experience encompassing renaissance, baroque, classical and 20th century music. Highly regarded as a continuo player, he has toured extensively as a chamber musician, and appeared with Britain’s leading orchestras, distinguished soloists and conductors. He has recorded for CD (including with an R’n’B Band!), broadcast on Classic FM, Radios 2, 3 and the World Service, as well as film projects, including for BBC 2. Currently he is particularly linked with the period instrument ensembles Manchester Baroque, The Eighteenth Century Concert Orchestra and Baroque in The North.
David’s enjoyment of teaching is reflected in a varied career that has been bookended by working in very different high profile institutions; the Royal Northern College of Music, where he established an Early Music Department, helped to lead the Keyboard School and was Senior Lecturer in harpsichord; and The Manchester Grammar School, where he was Head of Academic Music. He has also taught harpsichord at Chetham’s School of Music, as well as for a number of Universities. He is now harpsichord tutor at Manchester University, and examines for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music.
Outside of music, and in no particular order, David enjoys walking the dog, photography and exploring the Yorkshire Dales with his wife.
