Stephen Bell

Conductor who’s out of this world!

While conducting in front of 8,000 expectant promenaders in Buile Hill Park might make some people go weak at the knees, Stephen Bell is unlikely to be fazed

For last year he found himself having to cope with all manner of extraterrestrial surprises from across time and space as he did the honours at the Doctor Who Prom in the Royal Albert Hall.

That’s an experience that the Bury-born conductor still has fond memories of as he prepares for the 2009 BBC Proms in the Park in Salford.

“The Doctor Who Prom was a unique occasion and a hugely enjoyable one,” said Stephen. “It enabled us to bring the magic of the Proms to people who might not normally experience it - and that’s also a big part of what we’re doing in Salford.”

During his career he has become well-known for his ability to engage with audiences and has worked with performers ranging from Aled Jones to Katie Melua.

Stephen was also in Buile Hill Park last year to conduct the BBC Philharmonic while other orchestras he has worked with include both the Halle and the Manchester Concert Orchestra.