John Pearson

Musical Direction, Production, Trustee of TMT (2023-2026) and Treasurer (2023-2026)

John was a choral scholar at Christ’s College, Cambridge University and then embarked on a 40-year teaching career, initially at Tiffin School in Kingston upon Thames, then at Bedales, and finally as Academic Deputy Head at Tonbridge School in Kent.

He was Associate Musical Director with the National Youth Music Theatre (NYMT) for 30 years, during which time he directed shows, concerts and galas all over the world, from Edinburgh and London’s West End to Toronto and New York. You can find him conducting on the commercial CD of the production of Bugsy Malone! He has also worked as orchestral arranger and conductor for shows and events, including on radio and corporate and charity events in varied locations including at royal palaces and for royal events. In 2023, with former NYMT colleagues, he completed a pro bono project working with the Year Five class of St John’s Church of England Primary School in Kingston upon Thames in a specially written version of Cinderella.

John was one of the founders of Thames Music Theatre and pushed it with tireless efficiency, flair and determination in everything he did. Sadly, he passed away in April 2026. He will be much-missed.