James Bowman RIP

It is with deep sorrow we write that James Bowman has died. One of the foremost countertenors of his time, James was an undergraduate at New College and a member of the Choir as both an academical and lay clerk, before a storied career in opera. His interests spanned both early and contemporary music, where he was a dynamic and charismatic force. He became an Honorary Fellow in 1998, and was a stalwart supporter of the College and the Choir. 

His loss will be keenly felt by our musical community - our sympathy goes out to them, but also especially to James's partner, Terry. 

James Bowman with black background


Some of James's Recordings

Listen to James's famous recording of Purcell's Sweeter than Roses, accompanied by Benjamin Britten. 

 

Or, listen to James singing Es is Vollbracht on the New College Choir recording of Bach's St John Passion (2003). 

Tributes

Robert Quinney and Edward Higginbottom - the current and former Organist of New College - have written tributes to James. 

They can be read on the New College Choir website

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