Richard Grantham, new Chair for BCN.

Beverley’s multi-faceted cultural offer includes a tradition of annual festivals, live arts and

performance, visual arts, craftspeople, and heritage buildings. Together they enrich the fabric of our

lovely town, the region, and its community.

Until now, those organisations have lacked a formal network where they can connect with partners,

share experiences of common challenges and build collaborative and productive relationships.

A key change occurred when members of the sectors partnered on a collaborative ‘pilot’ project in

2023 to establish Beverley Cultural Network, (BCN), funded by the UK Government.

Recently, the organisation benefitted from attracting Richard Grantham as Chair. Richard’s

experience as a conductor, composer, arranger, and former secondary school music teacher spans a

vast career providing the leadership skills to support Beverley Cultural Network’s development as a

collaborative voice for the sector.

Richard’s knowledge of the industry arises from his professional work with ensembles across a wide

range of repertoire and musical styles, his contribution to Radio and TV, and work with high-quality

soloists; both vocal and instrumental, at venues including Symphony Hall, Birmingham, and the

Royal Albert Hall.

Equally committed to local audience development, Richard enjoys compering his own concerts,

whilst, naturally, supporting a gentle educational purpose, with his native Yorkshire humour!

Founded by Richard in 2021, the East Riding Concert Orchestra is a testament to his determination

to produce local, high-quality, and entertaining programmes. The professional orchestra, located in

Beverley, aims to provide the East Riding with one of the top professional orchestras in the country

and to build a worldwide reputation for first-rate entertainment.

With Richard’s focus on the region and his ambitions for nothing short of excellence, Beverley

Cultural Network looks forward to an exciting and rewarding future.