Meet our Music Staff


Conductor and Musical Director

Jlbrookes.co.uk

Jonathon-lee Young-Brookes

Jonathon-Lee is a dynamic conductor based in the UK, known for his deep musical insight and collaborative leadership. He is the founder and Principal Conductor of the Lancashire Sinfonia, a premier ensemble in the North West that brings together high-level amateur musicians, Students from RNCM & The University of Manchester and seasoned professionals. 

Conducting Experience & Leadership Jonathon’s conducting career took root during his time at College where he conducted several ensembles, during his undergraduate degree is when it became a focus for him - understudying for Simon Wright of York Guildhall Orchestra and attending many professional open rehearsals.  He was also granted the conducting scholarship for the Easter Orchestral Society course. In 2016 he further specialised studies at the University of Aberdeen under the tutelage of Prof. Paul Mealor. During this time, he built an extensive repertoire and gained vital podium experience across diverse ensembles. His roles have included:


  • Assistant Conductor: University of Aberdeen Chamber Choir and Opera Society
  • Director: University Chapel Choir
  • Principal Guest Conductor: King’s Philharmonic Wind Band
  • Guest Conductor: Grampian Concert Orchestra
In London, he expanded his entrepreneurial approach to music by founding the Blackfriars Camerata alongside acclaimed violinist Esther Abrami. After a brief hiatus from performing, Jonathon returned to the podium with renewed focus, undertaking extensive freelance recording and guest conducting work across the county. He can also be heard as a conductor on the album Immortal Memory, a collection of works set to the lyrics of Robert Burns. 

Musical Foundation & Training Before focusing exclusively on conducting, Jonathon built a formidable foundation as a chorister and musician. Spending eight years with the Blackburn Cathedral Choir, and later holding a Choral Scholarship at St David’s Cathedral, he developed an intrinsic understanding of large-scale symphonic and choral works, performing alongside ensembles such as the BBC National Orchestra of Wales and Onyx Brass. Committed to continuous artistic development, Jonathon has refined his baton technique through dedicated study, most notably with Prof.Peter Stark at RCM and on his rigorous Silent Conducting course. As an amateur historian, Jonathon brings meticulous research and historical context to his score preparation, ensuring an informed and authentic interpretation of every piece he directs. Alongside his Choral work Jonathon is a committed cellist, having started during his school years and continued to pursue his passion with a number of ensembles within and around Lancashire, Aberdeenshire and Yorkshire. During his time in Aberdeen he played in a number of local orchestras and was fortunate enough to play with the BBCSSO during their 10 Pieces Project back in 2016 which he was also one of the sectional conductors in the outreach project.  Outreach is a real driving force behind the development of Jonathon’s career. Coupled with his vision of musical excellence, he has striven at every opportunity to Erich those around him by championing ‘The Next Generation’. It is pivotal to Jonathon that young musicians are given the opportunities to develop their musical abilities and gain valuable experience which can serve them in their careers.  

A Few Industry Recognition & Appointments
  • Master of Music, Order of St George (Appointed 2023):  Initially awarded by the Order for services to music and ceremonial music. He was appointed further to the role of Master of Music for the Order, Jonathon oversees the musical direction for ceremonial events and services, and was awarded the rank of Knight Commander.
  • Brand Ambassador, Bärenreiter (Appointed 2025): Recognised for his commitment to musical excellence by the prestigious music publisher.
Beyond the Podium Outside of music, Jonathon has represented Great Britain as an international Artistic Roller Skater and currently serves on the GBSA Dance Coaching Team. He credits his background in elite-level skating with profoundly shaping his approach to musical interpretation, phrasing, and performance under pressure.

The Creative Team

Our Creative Team is made up of not only our principals but highly experienced musicians in their own right. These talented individuals along with the Principal Conductor work together to form our programmes and events.
SOPHIA SOUTHWICK

Manager
ASH MCAULAY

Social Media and Website
NIC

Development
Nimishi Ilango-Lyon

Co-Orchestral Representative

Vincent Yip

String Representative
STEPHAN HEATON
Principal Oboe
Woodwind Representative
KENNY PAIN
Principal Trumpet
Brass Representative


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