Lawrence Killian
Garry Walker
Jeremy Carnall
Christopher Swaffer
Dr. Horsfall, or Dr. Ben as he was affectionately known, conducted Todmorden Orchestra for 24 years, until his death in 1986 at the age of 77.
Dr. Horsfall aspired to be a great musician from an early age and desperately wanted to become a violinist. He studied at the Royal Manchester College of Music (now known as the Royal Northern College of Music) before going on to Durham University where he gained a Bachelor of Music degree. He played with both the City of Birmingham Orchestra and the Halle before the war, and the Cairo Symphonic Orchestra whilst posted in Egypt. After the war he studied for his Doctorate in Music and from 1946 - 1963 was deputy leader of the BBC Northern Orchestra. He lectured at Manchester University until his retirement in 1976.
Dr. Horsfall was highly thought of in the music world, and in recognition of his achievements he was made a fellow of the Royal Manchester College of Music. Nearer home, Todmorden Town Council conferred on him an honorary citizenship.
Back to History