About

Howard Ionascu is a professional conductor, specialising in choral music.

After a degree in music at Manchester University, Howard’s diverse career began as a professional singer in Wells Cathedral Choir, performing on many recordings, broadcasts and international tours.

Choral conducting began in 1997 when he founded The Laudate Choir. Howard is also Musical Director of the Exeter Philharmonic Choir.

Past conducting roles have included Bournemouth Sinfonietta Choir, Finchley Children’s Music Group Trebles Choir and The Esterhazy Singers of London. Howard is also in regular demand as a guest rehearsal conductor, and in recent years has worked with Choir of the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, Orlando Chamber Choir, City of London Choir, Rodolfus Choir, Guildford Choral Society, Winchester Philharmonic Choir and on Eton Choral Courses.

Howard has conducted a number of the leading UK orchestras and ensembles, including Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, London Mozart Players, English Chamber Orchestra, City of London Sinfonia, New London Orchestra and Onyx Brass.

Howard has a long association with music education, having led departments at some of the UK’s finest educational establishments and directed the choirs at Winchester College, King’s Canterbury and Junior Royal Academy of Music.

Finzi’s reverential Lo, the full, final sacrifice, paced to perfection and adorned with stellar soloists….

BBC Music Magazine CD review

Howard is an absolute joy to sing for – he brings a focus and musicality, pushing for the highest standards whilst creating a professional but fun environment.

Kate / Soprano

Howard was an amazing leader and conductor – a joy to sing with, giving great leadership and encouragement.

Karl Jenkins 'Armed Man' Choral Workshop / Attendee

Exeter Philharmonic Choir has developed in so many ways since Howard became its MD in 2017. His choice of repertoire and his own high standards challenge the choir, taking us out of our comfort zone but in a way that blends kindness, good humour and a calm professionalism.

Committee member / Exeter Philharmonic Choir

Howard has enabled us to perform with top UK ensembles including The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra and The London Mozart Players. He is an excellent role model for conductors directing a large and ambitious amateur chorus.

In my 30 years’ experience of singing with top choral conductors in London and elsewhere, I’ve found very few who can match Howard’s rare combination of musical intelligence and an ability to connect and engage with singers.

Jon / bass

I have sung for Howard for over 25 years. I have seen him interact with 8 to 80-year-olds and his relaxed, unflappable manner, brings out the best in all ages. He is a fantastic musician but has great trust in the musicianship of those he leads which results in outstanding collaborations.

Victoria / Soprano

Excellent director – Howard was engaging and very upbeat, making it an enjoyable day.

Howard is an exceptional conductor who knows how to encourage the best from the choir. He is creative and versatile when it comes to programming, it’s always a rewarding experience musically and socially.