S.D.

“Being under your guidance over the past two years has been such an honour for me. You have taught me so much about not only music, but performing, practicing and playing with others. …. Your knowledge and experience has truly inspired me to work hard to achieve the best I can. Choosing to come to Wells for sixth form was a hard decision for me, but I am so glad I did, as I have had an unforgettable two years here, and I massively thank you for making the experience as wonderful as it has been.”

CR.

“ You’ve been the nicest, most considerate and inspirational Head of Strings that we could have wished for. I’ve learnt so much from you and have had such fun in all the brilliant concerts. SCO is the best!”

Raphael Papo (Wells SO concertmaster, Music Prefect and String Captain 2018/2019).

“Matthew Souter is one of the figures whose words and wisdom will stay with me for the rest of my life.

My time at Wells was enriched due to his presence, both in orchestra, chamber music and mentorship as Head of Strings. He gave thorough commitment to all of his students and I would not be pursuing music as a profession without his teachings. Therefore I would highly recommend him as an experienced, passionate and most caring teacher.”

Cristina Alexandra Dimitrova

To whom it may concern,

I was a pupil at Wells Cathedral School, during the time Mr. Matthew Souter was the official Head of the Strings Department, viola teacher and SCO(chamber orchestra) conductor and founder.

Mr. Souter was the source of inspiration, motivation and enthusiasm for various pupils, including myself.He is someone who truly cares about both the musician and the individual and invests himself personally, encouraging the student to become the best version of themselves.Matthew Souter´s love for music, incredible sensitivity and musicality become evident in his playing and teaching.His performances with his Alberni Quartet in Cedars Hall were passionate and engaging in a way that inspired me as a young performer.

Matthew Souter´s SCO( String Chamber Orchestra) was the School´s main ambassador internationally, due to its extremely high level and professionalism. Mr. Souter was the force that pushed the orchestra to its excellence. He put a lot of hard work as a conductor and a manager, to ensure enough opportunities for the pupils to be heard. Matthew Souter organized various tours for SCO, whose performances were applauded worldwide.He made those tours possible by actively seeking sponsorships and connections, and his efforts made this incredible experience possible to many pupils who otherwise couldn't afford the expenses.He was very passionate about his work, which motivated everybody to do their best and give a heartfelt performance to the audiences.

I was very lucky to be part of SCO, while at Wells, because it gave me a foundation that prepared me for the future and taught me how to enjoy playing in an orchestra.The Tour I participated was very exciting and all performances were well prepared during the year, under the guidance of Mr.Souter. I feel truly privileged to have been part in this project and I am completely sure, everybody feels the same way. It was an experience that will stay with me as an important step towards my musical journey.

Matthew Souter was also a Chamber Music Coach, and I worked with him to prepare two octets: Schubert and Mendelssohn.He was very focused during each rehearsal, and gave us a very solid, consistent coaching that prepared us for performance. He is someone who understands music in a way that not many people can, and isn't afraid to share his knowledge with his students.We were able to perform this challenging pieces in a short amount of time, due to his encouragement, motivation, and of course highly qualified training.Just like SCO, Mr. Souter is someone who will push you to achieve your best, in a friendly and supportive manner.

As a Head of Strings, I have had constant support from Matthew Souter. He was someone I could always go talk to, and who would really listen, understand and care about my struggles and feelings. He has always supported me to the best of his ability and I am extremely grateful for all the help and care he's given me both as a person and musician. Many Students find hardships on their musical journey and I was very lucky to have someone who would sympathize and offer compassionate advice when needed.

Matthew Souter was very motivated to keep the level of the String Department as high as it could be, while offering support to all his pupils.He personally auditioned and supervised his students, to make sure they all have what they needed, personally, to reach their full potential.

Mr Souter has always been responsible and caring about his students, ensuring everybody´s safety, specially during Tours. However, he was also the person who would always have a handy joke, and ensure that everybody has a good laugh and fun.Making Music with Matthew Souter is Fun and that's how it should be.

I strongly recommend Mr Matthew Souter, as my experience as his student has surely helped me along my musical career and has been a very memorable time for me at Wells Cathedral School.

With my kindest Regards:

Cristina Alexandra Dimitrova

To whom it may concern,

I am writing regarding Matthew Souter.

As a professional cellist and a previous student of his department at Wells Cathedral School, I hold him in the highest regard and can recommend him as an exceptional candidate for the position. 

I joined the school for sixth form in 2010, just a few years after Matthew had taken over the running of the string department. It was clear to many how drastically the department had improved since his arrival, from the formalisation of technical examinations (a programme that left me far more prepared for my conservatoire studies than many of my GSMD colleagues) to Faculty Concerts, a regular occurrence meaning that students got to watch their professors perform - an incredibly enriching, inspiring and informative experience for all young musicians. SCO (String Chamber Orchestra) flourished under his direction, and not only was it by far the ensemble of highest calibre at the school, Matthew also ensured that the ensemble performed extensively both internally and externally - he organised collaborations with the Trinity Laban String Orchestra,  concert tours to Germany and many concerts around the UK during my time in the department. He also organised for a multitude of esteemed soloists and professors to come to the school for masterclasses on a regular basis - including the likes of James Ehnes, Leonid Gorokhov, So Ock Kim, Rodney Friend and many more. Matthew was forever creating opportunities for the department and the students in it, ensuring that not only the high achieving students would benefit, but that across the string department students of all ages and abilities would participate. 

During my time at Wells, the strings department was an incredibly positive and friendly place. Matthew created a great sense of community amongst us that allowed us to support and teach each other, rather than competing and putting each other down as is often the way at specialist schools. He encouraged students strongly to go and listen to as many concerts as possible, always reminding us that we can always learn from our peers. Chamber music was at the forefront of our musical learning, with even the youngest specialists all participating in some kind of ensemble with weekly support from tutors. His infectious energy and passion for his work were evident in all areas of his position - his words would always resonate with us whether it be in tutorial, rehearsals or in a lesson, and we would always come away after seeing him feeling challenged, focussed and energised. Another thing I am incredibly grateful for is the way I was prepared for entering music college - Matthew gave many of us a great deal of valuable advice in the lead up to our departure from the school, preparing us for the obstacles and difficulties of studying at conservatoire.

I have spent a great deal of time in musical education institutions - both as a student and now as an educator - and I strongly believe in having the best people in these positions to deliver high quality teaching at all levels. It is easy to recognise that Matthew’s brilliance as an educator lies not only in making the department a positive nurturing atmosphere, or his commitment to bring high calibre opportunities to the department, but most importantly in always making the wellbeing and development of students a priority. Having come to the school severely behind in my technical abilities, it was Matthew who encouraged and taught me how to better myself every week when many other teachers hadn’t thought I was capable. One year later, I was granted a place at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and nearly ten years on I am a working professional cellist - I have a BMus and MMus from one of the best conservatoires in the world, I have won several awards for my playing, and I now perform regularly as a soloist, chamber musician and with professional orchestras. There is no way I would have made it to where I am today without the words, encouragement and artistry that Matthew bestowed on me in my time at Wells, and I am only one of many who were lucky enough to have him as our head of strings. 

For the reasons laid out above, I believe that Matthew Souter would make an excellent candidate for this position, and your institution would be privileged to have him in your team. 

Yours sincerely,

Sophie Haynes

C.C- 

“I cannot thank you enough for everything you have done for me these two years. It has been a complete privilege being a Wells musician, being part of Wells Virtuosi and working with you. I learn something new every Monday morning in tutor group, you have taught me how to practice, how to approach music, and I have deeply benefitted from these key pieces of advice. I enjoyed every SCO rehearsal, tutor period, the Germany trip, and I will cherish these memories forever.”

George Owen

Matthew Souter was my Head of Strings and Conductor whilst I was at Wells Cathedral School, conducting me in the Wells Virtuosi in approximately 35 concerts over 3 years. It was always clear from my seat in the cello section that Matthew lived and breathed the music from the second it began. His directions both in rehearsals and concerts were clear, musical, and emotional, the trifecta of conducting, and it made us eager to match his energy in our playing. We conquered difficult music like Tchaikovsky's Serenade for Strings and Strauss' Metamorphosen with his diligent tuition. Matthew was never a conductor who proscribed and dictated but one who will always tease the right sound out of a musician. We knew that what he was saying was right, well-reasoned, and logical, and it was because of his wealth of experience and his passion for music-making of the highest quality driving him every day that we listened to every word he said. I always thought it was highly unfortunate that we never got to see him conduct the symphony orchestra. He could easily have been nothing but a professional conductor but he was never out of arm's reach of his viola!

As Head of Strings he took care over each pupil - even those who did not get allocated tuition direct from him. On hearing I was learning the Prelude to Bach's 5th Suite on cello, he called me into his office and played along with me, harmonising. He highlighted some key areas to think about - particularly the dissonance and resolution in the piece. It is remarkable that someone would sacrifice their few quiet moments to further enhance a pupil's education. Every time I play that piece I remember his words. Another thing he did as Head of Strings was to organise the string orchestra tours every two years. He fundraised tirelessly so that all of the orchestra could afford the trip and I will never forget the sights and sounds and experiences of those tours.

I also had the pleasure of seeing him perform, both in his quartet and in orchestral settings. He lived each note, and every note that everyone else played, and he communicated endlessly with everyone else.

At university, I took up conducting myself, having learnt all I could possibly need directly from Matthew. I also continued composing and performing and I am now studying a Masters in Orchestral Performance at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. I credit much of my musical development to him.

Matthew is a superlative performer, educator, and conductor; worthy and deserving of great recognition.

Leidy Sinclair

Looking back over my musical education in Bermuda, Boston, and England; Matthew Souter– the Head of Strings during my time at Wells Cathedral School, Somerset, England (2009-2012) – is one of the pillars of inspiration for my life as a violinist. As a head of department,he created an environment which was always open and encouraging. Previously, my past experience of an arts-based boarding school had been rather unsatisfactory due to the lack of nurturing and care in the leadership of the department. Therefore, my parents and I were keen to find a school and musical department that emanated the right atmosphere; the strings department at Wells Cathedral School provided exactly what I needed. It was a saving grace for me and my music-making and this is in large part because of the welcoming, intriguing and special environment Matthew Souter crafted there.

As I arrived at Wells to audition, Matthew was the first person I met and he instantly radiated kindness and enthusiasm. As I found over the ensuing three years, these are qualities that I regard as firm staples in his personality. Alongside these, he is imaginative, intuitive, dedicated and, of course a fantastic musician and intensely knowledgeable about the inner-workings of the classical music profession. When I reached the sixth form and the daunting exercise of choosing the next educational road to follow (be that paved with academic or performance-based studies) Matthew, as my tutor, was immensely supportive during the process. In the end, I decided to apply to music college and the words of encouragement and various modes of audition preparation he proffered at that time stay with me even now. For his sincere guidance and steadying support at that time of flux, I will always be grateful.

His total commitment to education shone through in many ways – not least through his infectious devotion to conducting the Wells Virtuosi String Chamber Orchestra. It was in those weekly three hours that I learned many musical life lessons from Matthew and is where my love of small ensemble playing and chamber music was ignited. Through his passion for managing that ensemble and his expertise in string quartet playing, he instilled an excitement to go beyond the notes in front of us and not to just play music together, but to create music together. Infusing the orchestral technique with a sense of string quartet mentality made a huge impact on me and I would say that through this approach, he brought our personalities out within that orchestra so that even if playing as part of a group, our voices sounding via an instrumental medium became more inextricably linked and therefore reinforced the collective strength of the ensemble. The musical training Matthew provided through this ensemble was such that when I made the transition to the Royal Academy of Music in 2012, the foundation that was laid put me in very good stead to approach conservatoire department ensembles with much confidence and zeal. Additionally, seven years on, my string quartet that formed on Day 1 of my undergraduate studies is still going from strength to strength and I credit the qualities and lessons in commitment, imagination, and dedication that I observed from Matthew to be important factors in how I have helped manage the life of my quartet.

I thank you for your time in reading this letter. Matthew Souter is a truly kind, committed, and passionate musician and educator. His enthusiasm for his profession has certainly made a huge impact on how I lead my musical life and I cannot recommend him more highly for any role in which he can help inspire future musicians.

Yours Sincerely,

Leidy Sinclair

Violin, Halcyon Quartet

RAM BA(Hons), MA, ProfDip, LRAM

www.halcyon-quartet.com

L. P.

“THANK YOU so very much for all your support and guidance getting me into Wells, then through my two years of CUKAS & UCAS, and SCO & chamber music. I have loved every second- Thank you very much” 

Parent- September 2017

“We are contacting you again to thank you very much for taking care of Pablo’s musical education.

….One of the main reasons (if not “the reason”) for Pablo to decide spending a term in Wells Cathedral School was music. And now that he is  sort of a “Wellensian”, the most enthusiastic comments about the school are linked to music lessons, and in particular, to your lessons. 

He is focused in improving his skills as violinist. We were pretty aware that he needed someone to put him on the right way, and are absolutely grateful for you having decided to take him as your pupil. He usually sends us a message when he ends his lessons with you, and it always reads that it was “incredible”/“amazing” . Even when future is always uncertain, we are absolutely sure that Pablo’s stay in Wells Cathedral School will change his life.

C.P.

“Thank you so much for all that you have done for me at Wells- without you it wouldn’t have been such an amazing experience. I’m sure my fond memories of SCO will stay with me forever as it was my favourite thing about school!”

Laura

“My name is Laura, I am a violinist and was once a student at Wells Cathedral School, where Matthew Souter was my mentor, chamber music coach, orchestra conductor and head of department. I am now doing my Bachelor's degree in violin performance and the University of Music and performing Arts Graz, Austria.

   Only at Wells Cathedral School have I ever experienced such an involved and genuine head of department as Mattew Souter has been. Whenever we needed help with anything from music to boarding life or school issues, we would always know that his door was open. When I had auditions coming up or was practicing a concerto with a friend, I could always knock on his office door and he would take so much time to not only listen to us, but really work with us too, even though there was not a lesson scheduled. I realize how important it is at that age to have someone who truly cares about their students and who is involved and up to date with everyone's progress and challenges. Once at music college, there is a lot less support, and I really recognize how I was able to cope much better than some fellow students, simply because I had already had that confidence put in me.

   I recently had a concert with old fellow students from Wells and it was so interesting talking to everyone about their experiences with orchestras at music college and elsewhere. We somehow all were slightly disappointed, that the level of awareness we had been taught from day one in the String Chamber Orchestra at Wells, led by Mr. Souter was very hard to find in any other orchestra, certainly the ones at music college. I truly believe the skills he has passed on to every member of SCO will be something distinguishing us from a lot of other orchestral players. It certainly is a lot more fun playing when you feel energy coming from every member, rather than just the leaders trying to engage their group. My farther, who is a professional orchestra player in Frankfurt, Germany, said the first time he heard us play in SCO that it has to be the best school orchestra in the world. Only now I am starting to understand the work that goes into getting a school orchestra to play on such a high level, and only a few other schools will have the opportunity to make the most of it and have a teacher that will make it happen.

    Matthew Souter is the best teacher and mentor I could have asked for. His musicality and creativity are so inspiring and he has so much experience in a field that me and my fellow students aspired to be working in. Whether in solo lessons, chamber groups or in orchestra, he always had so much belief in every one of us and our own musical ideas. His way of teaching opens up student's imagination and allows them to become autonomous musicians as opposed to just students who are playing as they are told. 

   I highly recommend Matthew Souter

H.O.

I just wanted to say a huge thank you for everything you’ve done so far for us! You’ve helped me so much this year and I’m looking forward to all the things to come!!... You’ve been very inspirational for me and for everyone else, I’ve really enjoyed SCO just because you were the conductor! Thank you so much for being here!

‘We all have so much to thank you for! Whether we’ve been in SCO for one year or four, we’ve all learnt so much from you and enjoyed the whole learning process….’

Joseph Prindle

Matthew Souter had a tremendously positive effect on my 5 years at Wells Cathedral School. I have very fond memories of playing Richard Strauss’ Metamorphosen under his direction with the school chamber orchestra. This exposure to such incredible music and playing cemented my ambition to become a double bassist. 

From my very first lunchtime concert at Wells age 13, to my gala recital in the last year of sixth form he was extremely supportive, and always seemed to truly care about the progress and well-being of my classmates and me.

I had a lesson with him before my audition for the Royal Academy of Music which at that time really opened my eyes to a different way of approaching music making. I think that perhaps I wouldn’t have received such a generous scholarship from the Royal Academy without it.

S.B.

“When you became my tutor last year, you were so sympathetic to my academic interests, and helped me to balance my commitments with such understanding that - to be frank - I didn't quite expect from a music teacher.

Throughout my life at Wells you have been so supportive of my growth and development, and not just in music. I want to thank you for being who you are, and bringing your character to the string department.”

J.S.

“You have made my entire time at Wells so special, and I will never forget the many memories you have given me in SCO and the String Dept. You have always been such a supportive tutor,and been there for me whenever I needed someone to talk to”…. “your  enthusiasm and passion is truly inspirational. Thank you for everything! “

Florence Corr

I am a recent viola graduate of Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and am writing as a student of Matthew Souter in various capacities between the ages of 11 - 18.

Matthew Souter was an incredibly dedicated, enthusiastic, involved, and talented head of department. When he arrived, he undertook to oversee all of the string chamber coaching, ensuring he got to know every student in the department on a musical and personal level. This also meant that we were privileged to receive his unparalleled chamber tuition, from the earliest stages of our musical development as specialist musicians, until we left to go to music college. His reverence and joy towards the music, as well as his vast knowledge and excellent musicianship, made learning with him an absolute pleasure. This abundant joy in music was also felt in his work as the conductor of our elite string chamber orchestra, which was the highlight of my time at WCS. 

In chamber and orchestral work, we covered much repertoire, preparing us well for professional life, and despite the volume of music given us, work of the highest quality was insisted upon. Beyond rehearsals, he created many performance opportunities, which gave us confidence and honed our skills as performers, in solo, chamber, and orchestra. As well as frequency of concerts, he also managed to get us amazing performance opportunities, such as foreign tours, playing in the Royal Opera House, and playing with prestigious professional musicians.

My main memories of Matthew Souter are of the complete joy he brought to the string department, and instilled in us as musicians. Despite what could be considered a gruelling workload, and the high standard expected, I always looked forward to creating music alongside him. While the technique, repertoire, professional standards, and information I learnt from him have served me excellently, the things I value most from my time as a pupil of Matthew Souter is the love of, and passion towards, music that he inspired.

Best wishes,

Florence Corr

R.L.

“Thank you so much for teaching and coaching me all these years. Without you, my life here at Wells would not have been the same, neither would I have thought so much about music.Thank you for your endless patience….I will miss you forever! “

Also;

“It was such a privilege to have you as my teacher and this tiny card would never be enough to express how much I treasure my time being with you. You have been the most wonderful and caring teacher in the world. In Wells, you have not only been my teacher, but my father as well. You’ve cared not only how I play, but who I am, and I’m teally sad having to leave you…. I will never forget any single lesson you’ve given me. I know that you’ve put so much effort in and I’ve learnt so much from you. I would never have been who I am if you have not been there. I am truly sad to have to leave you, but I promise I will never forget any single word you’ve told me. Mr. Souter, thank you so much and I will never forget anything you’ve done for me.”

H.H.-

“I can’t believe my time at Wells is finally over, I feel like a completely different person now from 6 years ago! Thank you so much for everything you have done for me during my time here, in particular persevering with me when I was a lot younger! I have enjoyed and fully appreciated all the opportunities I have been lucky enough to experience.” ….. I have all of this to thank you for, as well as your constant support and inspiring advice

Thank you.”  

S. O.

“Thank you so much for the amazing tour and 6 years in Wells. Without you I wouldn’t have even known about Wells and would of never considered doing music as a career. You have helped me over the years to grow up not just as a musician but also as a person. Thank you”

K. P.

“Thank you so much for everything over the last 5 years. I have learnt such a lot, not only in SCO but through ensemble coaching and of course my viola lessons. Thank you for being so patient with me when I don’t take my own advice! I am so grateful for the time and energy you spend organising such amazing experiences for us. I have so many memories which I will treasure forever. Thank you.”

C.Y.

“...Also for being a fabulous and inspirational conductor. I really hope to see you when I leave Wells! It’s been a privilege to be able to be taught by you!”

T.M.

“I have really enjoyed playing in SCO this year…. Thank you for everything you have taught us - I have definitely learnt a lot”

J.J.

Thank you so much for everything & all your support over the past 2 years!

L.C.- 2016. Thank you so much for everything that you have done for SCO this year. All the concerts and rehearsals have been such a great experience and I have learnt so much from you in the past year. ….You have taught me so much about chamber music this year in both SCO and quartet, thank you so much for it!”

L.C.

This is just a small note to say thank you so much for everything you have done for me in the four years that I have been at Wells. The lessons I have learnt from you have been truly invaluable and I have no doubt that I would not be anywhere near the musician that I am today without your help. You have given me so much inspiration through individual lessons, chamber music coaching, SCO, concert opportunities and tours that has all shaped the way that I now feel about music. No matter what I go on to next year, I will always feel deeply passionate about moving people with music, which is something that you have ignited in me throughout my time here.

Thank you for all that you have done to shape me into a better musician...and more importantly a better person.

L. H.

“Thank you so much for this amazing year in which I learnt so much, for solo playing as well as chamber music in SCO and quartet! This year really helped me in the way I play and think about music! Thank you.

K.S.

“Thanks for everything you’ve done for me for the past year. I really appreciate everything and am looking forward to another year of amazing music.”

A.W.

“Thank you so much for this year. I have learned and grown so much. I really enjoyed playing all those wonderful pieces. One experience I will never forget, was playing the summer with SCO. It was one of the greatest experiences I have ever had. Thank you for making Monday evenings so enjoyable. And thank you so much for the wonderful Germany tour.”

H.H.

“SCO has been such an enriching and valuable experience for me, I’ve learnt so much about orchestral playing and lifting the music from the page. I feel I’ve developed so much from the nervous, inhibited player I was when I first joined SCO, and have enjoyed the learning curve so much…. Thank you for your constant support and inspirational advice, I have learnt so much from you which will stay with me forever!… I am so grateful for all you have done!”

 R.F.C.

Matthew...bring(s)  to the world not only incredible musicians but incredible human beings.”

F.C.

“…Thanks for being such an incredible Head of Strings…for teaching me so much and for always being so lovely and supportive. SCO has always been the musical highlight of school for me. Thanks for everything!”

L.P.

“THANK YOU so much for your kindness and all the amazing opportunities I’ve had in my first year at Wells. It has truly been the best year musically of my life. Being in SCO has been incredibly inspiring and rewarding. Also having you coaching Purcell Amphitryon & Brandenburg ensembles was brilliant. Thank you.

G. K.

“Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be part of SCO and teaching me how to play the music rather than just notes gradually throughout the year. It has been a very exciting year! Thank you.

K.F.

“ Thank you so much for the amazing opportunity to play in SCO this year and all the other fantastic experiences I have been able to have since coming to Wells.I have learned so much this year and am extremely grateful for all the encouragement and advice I have had! Thanks again”.

“Thank you so much for the opportunity to play in SCO. It is so much fun and I’m learning so much. Thank you.”

C.L.

Thank you for the opportunity to play in SCO when I came to Wells. I’ve learned so much from the rehearsals and I appreciate your patience with us :)..... I’ve really enjoyed my time here in Wells and SCO and will miss it so much!”

G.O.

“ My six years at Wells have been incredible- you are such an inspiration to us all! SCO has been extremely valuable to me as a cellist and composer, and as a human being that adores playing music with the people I adore, so thank you for the opportunity!”

G.R.

“Thank you so much for my wonderful time at Wells!  Thank you so much for being our Head of Strings.”

P. T.

“Thank you for everything you’ve done for the orchestra….. I have had a great time in the orchestra and have learnt so much about chamber music. I'm really looking forward to the next few years.”

M.M.

“ You truly inspire and motivate us all! Thank you for all your dedication towards all of us!!”

“ I would like to take this opportunity to thank you very much for all that you have done for me. Your care, guidance, advice and support I will treasure forever. I will miss many things in the String department.”

AW

“Thank you so much for all that you have done the last three years. Your kindness and expertise are invaluable….. and making my time at Wells so enjoyable”

AM

“ SCO was inspirational”

PF

“I joined Wells a year ago and since the beginning you were a great inspiration to me. I learned so much… I really enjoyed playing in different ensembles, SCO in particular, and look forward to work and learn from you! Thank you!

EF

“ I just want to say a massive thank you for everything you have done for me and for everyone on SCO. I have learned so much from being in SCO and my playing has improved so much as well as ] so much fun! …. I love playing in SCO and look forward to the years to come! Thanks again.”

“...SCO was always the most anticipated part of my weeks at school. The huge dedication from Mr Souter to achieve the well known and respected high standard of the group was (and still is) strongly admired by all of us.”

JW

“You’ve been a great inspiration to me, and your advice has really helped me to improve… Thank you so much for the wonderful experience.”

PD

...It has been an honour to have been able to play with you….. I am really thankful for your help and advice about life and stuff...you have given me so much to think anout next year and to help me through life and I’m really grateful and I thank you for that.”

FS

“I’ve really enjoyed playing in SCO and have learnt to play beyond the notes on the page.Thank you so much.”

AD

“Pleasure being under your watchful eye...you have inspired great things in my playing and I’m truly grateful.”

ZS

“ I must say that I really enjoyed your lessons during these two tears, they were all very inspiring and lead me to a deeper love of music. Also I shall always remember what you said after the Concerto Auditions, that had an important impact on me, and is going to continue in my future career. I feel lucky having met you in my life and have you as a mentor!”

LS

“After 3 years, I’m going to miss spending Monday nights with SCO tremendously. Thank you for all your advice and support during my time at Wells. I will keep it with me as I venture forth next year.”

S H

“I just wanted to write and thank you personally for everything you have done for me and SCO- the last two years at Wells have changed my life, and I’ve learnt reams and reams from you- and also simply being in the String Department taught me a lot. You have been incredibly generous, giving me countless opportunities even when I wasn’t technically accomplished- without this, I don’t know if I’d have worked nearly as hard to be a cellist I am now…. You’ve been the most amazing Head of Department, you’ve taught, inspired me ….. It’s kindled my passion for music, which is the best gift I’ve ever been given. So thank you again for everything.”

LC.

“When visiting various music college open days, the resounding topic that previous Wells students would discuss ‘ how much they missed Mr Souter (both in individual teaching and in SCO).”   

Mike Haynes

From the Father of Hatty and Sophie Haynes.

Dear Matthew,

It seems such a long time ago that a rather frightened Hatty arrived at Wells to audition, and much has happened to both Hatty and Sophie since then.

Both Tessa and I are incredibly indebted to you personally and professionally for all that you have done with and for the girls.  It's hard to put into words all that this means, but we know you have been truly inspirational for them both, and never compromising in your demands for quality. 

They have had so many opportunities in the string department (which I know they have always tried to make the most of) but more importantly they have had such huge respect and admiration for all that you do; they will always feel a close connection to Wells, but especially to you and your work.  I remember you saying that your main task was to "develop character in your musicians" as they will always play to their character, and when I look at what this has done for Sophie and Hatty, I am so thrilled in all respects.  I feel immensely proud of both girls who not only have become passionate, committed and very able musicians but also really responsible, balanced and loyal young adults, and much of our gratitude goes to you for this.

It will be strange to no longer be making that rather annoying car journey to Wells, although I'm sure our mileage to London will now double!

With all best wishes for the Germany tour and sincere thanks for everything you have done,

 Best wishes,

Mike Haynes

“ You’ve been the most amazing Head of Department, you’ve taught, inspired me …… It’s kindled my passion for music, which is the best gift I’ve ever been given. So thank you again for everything.”

CR.

“ You’ve been the nicest, most considerate and inspirational Head of Strings that we could have wished for. I’ve learnt so much from you and have had such fun.” 

SB.

“You sparked a love of chamber music in me - the way you coached our trio in particular helped us see what it was really about. When you invited me to join SCO in Year 8 I was thrilled, and saw what an ensemble was meant to be like. I learned so much in that first year of SCO. The tour we did at the end of my year 9 was an incredible experience I will never forget, and you really brought life out of us as we played.

When you became my tutor last year, you were so sympathetic to my academic interests, and helped me to balance my commitments with such understanding that - to be frank - I didn't quite expect from a music teacher.

Throughout my life at Wells you have been so supportive of my growth and development, and not just in music. I want to thank you for being who you are, and bringing your character to the string department.”

LC.

“Matthew Souter was without a doubt the person who had the greatest impact on my four years at Wells. During my school career I know that there were many string players who wanted to study with him, and so I felt particularly privileged to be able to have him as my teacher for 3 years. I can definitely say that I would not be anywhere near the musician that I am today without his help. He helped me with so many aspects of my playing including technique, imagination, confidence and so much more that I will always be incredibly grateful for. It was through studying with Matthew Souter that I developed a true passion for music, which I will take with me for the rest of my life.

From my very first consultation lesson with Mr Souter through to my last lesson I would always leave my lessons inspired, eager to get back to the practice room to improve on the many aspects that we would discuss in the lesson, and to know exactly why I was practicing such specific things to reach my end goal. My lessons were always thought provoking, allowing me to develop musical ideas myself rather than simply being dictated by a teacher. Many of my lessons, particularly when I first started with Mr Souter, were focussed on the importance of scales and technique (including his scale system, exercises such as collet and shifting, and studies from Rode, Dont, Kreutzer etc.). However what made these lessons so inspiring was that he made me understand the reasoning behind the importance of scales and technique in order to reach an end musical goal, and this is what still keeps me motivated to practicing scales and perfecting my technique every day.”

EC.

“you lifted the standard of SCO and the quality and quantity of output beyond what we knew was possible. A huge, heartfelt thank you to you for all those incredibly happy and inspiring times.”