A series profiling musical alumni of the University of Kent. This week, Dominic del Nevo.
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When were you at Kent ?
2002/2003 – 2004/2005
What subject did you study ?
Politics & International Relations
What occupation are you now engaged in ?
Pensions Administration.
If music is not your profession, do you participate in any musical experiences now ?
Yes – I have recently taken on the position of choir director at St Paul’s Church in Canterbury. I also sing with a couple of Canterbury-based chamber choirs.
How were you involved in music whilst at Kent ?
I sang with the Chamber Choir for two years and conducted it in my final year. I was the Secretary of the Music Society in my secnd year. I also sang with the University Chorus, and did the occasional stint of barbershop singing.
What did you gain from your University music experience, and has this helped you in any way since leaving Kent ?
It was certainly a lot of fun, and I gained some great friends (and a fiancée, now wife!) in the process. I was able to take advantage of some brilliant opportunities – singing and conducting in the Crypt of the Cathedral, and solo singing in the Cathedral and elsewhere. The experience of conducting the Chamber Choir is one of the reasons why I’m now conducting a church choir every week.
What was your most memorable musical experience at Kent ?
Being involved in the first ArtsFest – it was so different from ‘just’ the Prom concerts of previous years, and a really exciting and unpredictable event…plus the weather was perfect!
What would you say to current musical students at the University ? (optional!)
Come and join St Paul’s Church choir! But seriously, take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way, you may not get another chance.
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If you’re a musical alumnus and would like to be featured, get in touch via the Music Department website: we’d love to hear from you!