Florian Cooper
Florian graduated with a degree in music from Durham University in 2012, where he focused his studies on orchestration, conducting and research into the Russian composer Dimitri Shostakovich. Florian is a multi-instrumentalist (‘cello, bass & piano) and has always enjoyed performing and directing music spanning a variety of genres. As a conductor, Florian studied under Ray Farr from 2009 – 2012. During this time Florian was fortunate to be appointed as guest conductor of the Sunderland Symphony Orchestra, to conduct the Reg Vardy Brass Band and to regularly conduct Durham University Symphony Orchestras in a wide ranging programme of exciting repertoire, often performing in the glorious acoustic of Durham Cathedral. Florian is also very active as a musical director of Musical Theatre and Big Bands and has amassed great experience providing Musical Direction for a multitude of shows. He is currently the Musical Director of the London based Seven Steps Big Band, a 20 piece premier jazz ensemble who enjoy regular sell-out performances at London’s most prestigious Jazz venues, and benefit from a close working relationship with Cruise & Maritime Voyages, taking a yearly residency on board one of the company's flag-ship vessels.
As an orchestrator and arranger Florian works in many different genres from big band to orchestral. A highlight came with the commission to orchestrate the new musical The Confession Room by Dan Looney for 11 piece orchestra, recorded on a concept album in which Florian also played the bass guitar. Florian’s orchestrations and arrangements have been performed extensively around the country as well as abroad, notably by members of the Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra.
Florian is currently Director of Music at Brentwood School and it is in inspiring young musicians where he feels his most fulfilled. Blessed with an exceptional team and remarkable young students, he is very proud to be part of a huge expansion of music within the school and it is with sincere pleasure that this commitment now engulfs the majority of his energies.
Outside of music and education, Florian enjoys fine wine, good food and skiing and is always amazed at how well the three complement each other!