New leader takes the stage as we mark a remarkable contribution behind the scenes

16th September 2025

This season marks a significant milestone for the orchestra with the appointment of a new leader, Maud Hodson, and the retirement of John and Jennifer Moorhouse as our longstanding Chair and Secretary.

Maud, a music publisher who studied at Manchester University and King’s College London, was principal cello of London Schools’ Symphony Orchestra in the late 1980s and has extensive orchestral experience leading various sections. She has Grade 5 or above on ten different instruments and diplomas on both violin and cello.

“Since I switched my focus from cello to violin a few years ago, leading an orchestra has been right at the top of my ‘bucket list’,” Maud explains. “To have the opportunity to lead the Todmorden Orchestra, in my new home town, is a dream come true. I have already played with the orchestra for a year, in the principal second violin seat, so I already feel very much a part of this talented and welcoming group, and am very proud that they have chosen me to be their new leader.”

The orchestra pays tribute to outgoing leader Jonathan Whitehead, who has served as Leader for four years, with great distinction.

End of an era
After an extraordinary period of service, John and Jennifer Moorhouse are stepping down from their positions after 19 years as Chair for John, and 38 years as Secretary for Jennifer (plus 38 years as Librarian for John).

“We are standing down after nearly 40 years. They have been years of pleasure and dedication to upholding the orchestra’s reputation for performing high-quality classical music to our loyal and appreciative Todmorden audiences,” say the Moorhouses. “The future for the orchestra is bright and it is now for others to uphold its standards and ambitions.” John and Jennifer will continue playing in the orchestra.

The orchestra is making a presentation at their AGM on 16 September to thank John and Jennifer for their remarkable service to the orchestra. A new Chair and Secretary will also be elected at the AGM.