Biography

Thomas Shelbourn is a passionate educator, leader and musician. He was appointed Head of music in September 2022 at a local secondary school in Norwich where he has already built up the music department from scratch and has now appointed a team of 7 visiting music teachers with over 60 lessons taking place each week and several new music groups. In previous roles Thomas has lead and managed numerous successful high profile events and ensembles, including the Chapel Choir at Ipswich School, leading evensong at Worcester Cathedral, Lichfield Cathedral and Bury Cathedral as well as organising and being responsible for the choir on tour. In addition to his choral leadership, Thomas is an experienced musical director with recent productions including The Addams Family and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Thomas studied at the Royal College of Music from 2012-16 graduating with a 1st class bachelor of music degree with honours. He co-founded the recorder trio 'Equalateral', performing at the Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace and Aberdeen Youth Festival among others. They were also winners of the RCM Historical Perfomance Prize for 2016. During his time at college Thomas created an art and music instillation based on the beautiful 'La Mi Re' and his dramatised version of 'Stainless Safari' (featuring a life-sized elephant and indoor fireworks) caused hilarious response from the audience. In his music he hopes to entertain, bringing reflection and a smile to the audience.
Thomas is also a confident organist, pianist, singer and Tuba player. Thomas has been praised for outstanding development of music curriculums and providing a breadth of enrichment opportunities for all, particularly in finding imaginative ways to engage the most derived students. Thomas continued his studies specialising in Music Education at the University College London Institute of Education in 2019. He graduated with a Masters in Music Education with distinction in 2021. He has worked in schools in London and East Anglia as a music teacher for over 10 years as well working as a freelance music teacher. Thomas is particularly passionate about nurturing pupils' love for participation in music and has set up several community choirs and ensembles in his schools and within the community. He has also conducted many ensembles including the Heart of Kent Orchestra, Maidstone Baroque Chamber Orchestra ('The Baroque Stop'), and various school orchestras and chamber groups.
From 2016-18 Thomas trained in christian ministry working as a ministry trainee at Christ Church Kensington and studying in the Cornhill Training Course for bible ministry. He is passionate about ministry within the local church and continues to take an active role in serving at his congregation in Norwich.

Thomas is married to Lisa and lives in Norwich with their ducks and chickens! He is a senior skater for his local ice dance club and fan of outdoor pursuits. Above all, Thomas is keen to promote a love of learning and nurture long-lasting personal and community growth.

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