Charles Béquignon-MacDougall – Musical Director
Charles Béquignon-MacDougall is recognised equally for his singing and his transformative work with choirs, singers, and teachers, and was appointed Director of Finsbury Park Singers in 2023.
He is Creative Director of Gabrieli Roar, ABRSM Consultant (co-leading ABRSM Voices), Ambassador for Britten-Pears Arts, and Director and Trustee of the Choral Foundation at the Chapel Royal, Hampton Court Palace. He is also a course tutor for the National Opera Studio’s Opera in Community and Education Settings programme.
An accomplished conductor and vocal coach, he is Chorus Director for Gabrieli Roar and one of the Musical Directors of Trinity Laban Conservatoire Chamber Choir. He directs both Finsbury A Cappella and Victoria Park Singers in London, and has worked as Chorus Master with organisations including the BBC, National Youth Choir, and Music for Youth.
His work has been widely recognised, including a Music and Drama Education Award for Excellence in Primary/Early Years (2018) and multiple subsequent nominations. In 2024, he was part of the artistic team behind the Gramophone Award-winning recording of Elgar’s Dream of Gerontius with Gabrieli Consort, and in 2025 his contribution to community music was honoured by His Majesty The King.
A highly sought-after facilitator, he works with organisations including the BBC Singers, London Symphony Orchestra, ISM, ABCD, and the World Voices Festival, supporting singers, teachers, and choir leaders across the UK and beyond, and is passionate about creating vibrant, choral environments where singers can thrive and perform at their best.
As a performer, Charles was a founding member of VOCES8 and continues to sing with ensembles including Gabrieli Consort, London Voices (appearing on numerous film soundtracks), and London Early Opera, where he also serves as Consort Director.
Hannah Brine – Founder and Choir Manager
Hannah Brine is a passionate choral conductor who believes that everyone can sing, regardless of experience or background. Growing up in a musical family, Hannah recognises the privilege of early musical exposure and has dedicated her career to making the joy of singing accessible to all. She firmly believes in the transformative power of music, whether it’s enjoyed once a week, once a month, or even once a year.
Hannah prides herself on creating safe, nurturing environments where singers of all levels can thrive. Her choirs work with some of the best professional musicians, maintaining high standards while inspiring participants to reach their full potential. Her commitment to excellence is reflected in the diverse and prestigious performances her choirs have delivered, including appearances at the Royal Variety Show, Olivier Awards, BBC Proms, and various TV and recording projects.
Hannah Brine founded Finsbury Park Singers in 2018. To read more about her work visit www.hannahbrine.uk.
Judith Ogden – PA to Hannah Brine
Judith grew up in Oxfordshire and studied for a degree in Music at Bristol University, graduating in 1994. She worked for a marketing production company in Bristol, and then for a marketing consultancy in Bath, before becoming a freelance arts administrator, and graphic and web designer in 2002. She has appeared as a singing extra in Christmas specials of Call the Midwife and Casualty, and on the soundtrack for TV ads and drama series, as well as on the sci-fi film Annihilation. She is married to the conductor and composer David Ogden, and has four children aged from 18 to 28 years.