Kenneth Woods, conductor
A passionate advocate for the music of our time, and conductor
of the Contemporary Music Ensemble of Wales, Kenneth Woods'
many performances of today's music have drawn wide praise
from the toughest of critics, today's composers-
"Thank you for the wonderful performance of my cello concerto, Eleanor's Gift ,with the Grande
Ronde Symphony Orchestra!!!!! Ken: please accept my warmest congratulations for your
wonderful work! Your sound is shining, sweet, solid and powerful. I am very grateful for your
strong support!”
Chen Yi

"Thank you for offering your brilliant conducting talents... anc a huge thank you for all of your hard
work yesterday and in advance of the performance, it is much appreciated."
Joanna Lee

"A CD of the concert was waiting for me on my return. I am amazed at how good it is and how you
managed to get such a wonderfully musical performance of my piece - well all the pieces, well
done and many thank
s"
Philip Sawyers

"Very often, a composer's greatest fear is surrendering our music to the maestro. Even to the
best of them. Yet, with absolute conviction I say there are no hands more capable than those of
maestro Ken Woods. I come to world-premiere performances refreshingly calm and confident
that my work is well prepared and rehearsed. His greatest distinction, however, is that he simply
understands the music."
Chris Thomas


Thanks also for your commitment to the project: in particular, supporting f7s commission and in
engaging with it so diligently for performance. We achieved a great deal last weekend, most of
that being down to your efficient and focused rehearsals for which I'm very grateful - I look
forward to the broadcast."
Gordon Downie

I hear things went well with Tim...he was so excited, as am I.  Thanks so much for your work on
this.  I am glad that you were on the podium...  Many, many thanks, Jennifer"
Jennifer Higdon

Hi Ken Just a big thank you for conducting my piece so well. I was very impressed with your
musicality, your expert handling of the group and the sound of the orchestra also! Please convey
my regards and best wishes to them!"
Gerald Garcia