Choirs directed by Howard

Exeter Philharmonic Choir

Exeter Philharmonic Choir is one of the UK’s oldest and leading large choruses, celebrating its 180th anniversary in the 2026/27 Season. The choir’s main performance venue is Exeter Cathedral, working with top-class professional orchestras and soloists. Coming up: Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana in Exeter Great Hall and Vaughan Williams A Sea Symphony in Exeter Cathedral.

Find out more about the choir here

2026/27 Season Brochure

Find out more about the choir and how to join. Click here

The Laudate Choir

The Laudate Choir comprises young, talented singers from across the south east. It enjoys great success in London venues as well as further afield. Their annual sell-out charity Christmas concert at St Paul’s Church, Knightsbridge is always much-anticipated. They recently performed Brahms German Requiem (Iain Farrington orchestration) with Ensemble Eight in St Gabriel’s, Pimlico and plan to return there in March 2027 for a performance of Handel Messiah to celebrate the choir’s 30th anniversary!

“The excellent Laudate”

Gramophone

“A choir who can certainly get the hairs at the back of the neck to tingle”

Gramophone

“Highly polished voices of Laudate”

Gramophone

“Laudate is another of those excellent English choirs…highly recommended”

The American Organist

Twickenham Choral

Twickenham Choral are a large and ambitious auditioned chorus with weekly rehearsals. They perform regularly in a variety of West and Central London venues, including Landmark Arts Centre, Kingston Parish Church, Cadogan Hall, St John’s, Smith Square and The Albert Hall, with leading professional instrumentalists and soloists. Prospective new members are always welcome to try out the choir at an Open Rehearsal. Next OPEN REHEARSAL is Thursday 10th September.

Next concert:

Saturday 19th December, 2026 – Landmark Arts Centre, Teddington

Britten CEREMONY OF CAROLS, Finzi IN TERRA PAX, Vaughan Williams FANTASIA ON CHRISTMAS CAROLS, Dove I AM THE DAY

Orchestra: Musica Tamesis

Soprano: Any Carson

Baritone: James Geidt

Harp: Hugh Webb

Conductor: Howard Ionascu

Find out more about the choir.
Click here

Find out more about the choir. Click here

Professional singers and instrumentalists

Howard regularly organises professional singers and instrumentalists for public and private events. These have included weddings, funerals, corporate events and Christmas parties. Contact Howard for help, musical advice or a quote for any of your musical requirements.

Contact

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.

Kate / Soprano

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.

Committee member / Exeter Philharmonic Choir

The transformation of our sound, increased confidence and, importantly, the positive mood that is evident in rehearsals is incredible in such a short time and testament to your innate musicianship and good humour.

Choir member/Twickenham Choral

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

Karl Jenkins 'Armed Man' Choral Workshop / Attendee

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.

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

BBC Music Magazine CD review

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.

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

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

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