Conductor

Callum Rookes

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About Callum

"That British Conductor Guy"! Founder | Scottish Video Game Orchestra Musical Director | Project//Symphonic
Conductor
Dunfermline

Callum Rookes, affectionately known as "That British Conductor Guy" is a British-European conductor of great versatility, sensitivity, and dynamism. He’s established himself as a sought after conductor for his refreshing, humorous, and energetic demeanour on the podium; and his sincere, warm, and inviting approach to music making. In the UK, Callum has conducted leading ensembles such as the Central Band of the Royal Air force, His Majesty's Regimental Band of the Coldstream Guards, Birmingham Symphonic Winds, The London Video Game Orchestra, and has had professional engagements with the BBC and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Internationally, Callum has attracted further attention and has guest conducted the San Francisco Philharmonic Orchestra, the Denver Philharmonic Orchestra, the New York Paramount Orchestra, and the University of Milwaukee Wind Ensemble. He’s been selected for international conducting workshops including the Maestro Masterclass in New York, the International Conducting Institute, the International Sherborne Summer School for Conducting, and the University of Milwaukee Conducting Symposium. Callum has received tuition from some of the most sought after clinicians in the field including Donald Schleicher (Director of Orchestras, Northwestern University), Mark Heron (Head of Conducting, Royal Northern College of Music), Diane Wittry (Allentown Symphony Orchestra), Bjorn Sagsted (Grieg Academy of Music), Col. Jason Fettig ret. (Director, President’s own Marine Band) and Professor Michael Haithcock (Professor Emeritus of Music, University of Michigan). Excitingly, after the most recent symposium in Milwaukee, Callum was invited to study for a Masters in Conducting as a Graduate Teaching assistant under the tutelage of Dr Thomas Gamboa at The Peck School of the Arts. Callum also leads workshops for groups seeking to develop their ensemble playing skills, and wanting a fresh perspective from a third person. He is open to discussing your needs and how he can be a guest clinician with your group. Prior to being a professional conductor, Callum was the Principal tubist in Her Majesty's Coldstream Guards, later the Central Band of the Royal Air Force, and took part in the most significant state ceremonial events in recent years such as the State Funeral of Her Majesty QE II.

Callum's Reviews

From customers:

MB
Melissa B
1 year ago

I've had the privilege of working both alongside Callum and under his baton, and both are a real treat. As a conductor, he has the perfect balance between well-versed, passionate musician and the all-important approachable, humorous personality. Having deputised as a conductor for ensembles he is the director of, I always notice how they are well prepared, have a great range of music perfectly suited to their level, and are focussed on their best music making! Callum is the consummate professional in all regards and a nice guy to boot - what more could your wish? -Melissa Brown, Freelance Performer, Music Educator, Host of Bold as Brass podcast-

SV
Simon W
3 years ago

Callum is a passionate teacher and musician with a remarkable depth of knowledge...He is able to create a trusted, fun and safe environment to explore playing and musicality.

Callum's Song list

Late 19th Century Repertoire
20th Century Repertoire
Film Soundtracks
Videogame Soundtracks

Callum's Prices

Last updated: 2025

Note: prices may vary based on travel distance. For an exact quote, click “Check availability”.

Packages
Dep Conductor2 hours
If you wish for me to cover a rehearsal in lieu of your regular conductor.
£125
Workshop6 hours
I offer a bespoke workshop for your ensemble. Great for groups seeking ensemble development and a fresh perspective on your groups playing.
£437.50

Add-ons

Extra 2 Hr Rehearsal
+£125
Customer questions

What if my timings change after I've booked you?

That's fine, however if less than 48 hours notice is given, and it greatly affects scheduling, then I reserve the right to cancel the booking.

Can you provide an iPod/DJ service before and between your sets?

N/A

How much time do you need to set up?

N/A

Can I pick the pieces you play from the set list?

N/A

Do you bring all the equipment you need to perform?

N/A

Can you learn specific pieces before the event?

Yes. Let me know your repertoire as soon as you can!
Musicianship
Genres:
Film / TV music, Military, Christmas, Classical, Baroque, Contemporary classical, Musical theatre, Swing, Blues, Dixieland, Jazz, Marching, Light music, Originals, Experimental, World music, Polka, French music, German music, Italian music
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Instruments:
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Event types:
Concert, Charity event, Corporate event, Private event
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Other skills:
Arranger, Fluent sight-reader, Instrumental teaching, Theory teaching, Community music worker
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