About the Dubai Chamber Orchestra
The orchestra was founded in the summer of 2002 by Philip Cree, Linda Brentano and a group of players, all resident in the UAE. Comprising many nationalities and employed in a variety of professions, the musicians meet regularly to rehearse in their free time. Ben Druffel was appointed as conductor in 2006.
The orchestra aims to give two public performances a year, including works featuring different soloists from within the orchestra. The number of members has increased considerably since the first concerts in March 2003. There are now around 40 players from Australia, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Holland, India, Ireland, Japan, Kazakhstan, New Zealand, Philippines, Poland, Russia, Syria, UK and the USA.
Benjamin Druffel, Conductor. At 25 years old Benjamin Druffel is a young, up and coming conductor. Born in 1981, Benjamin received his musical training at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa, USA where he studied French horn, piano and voice as well as conducting. He participated in master classes with Rolf Smedvig, trumpet of Empire Brass; and Joseph Giunta, conductor of the Des Moines Symphony Orchestra. He graduated in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music Education.
Upon finishing his studies, Benjamin moved to Dubai and is now in his third year teaching music at Dubai American Academy. He is currently teaching instrumental music in the secondary division.
Not long after his start in Dubai, Benjamin began to play French horn in the Dubai Wind Band and Dubai Chamber Orchestra. Benjamin became conductor of the Wind Band in January 2005 and conductor of the Orchestra in March 2006. He made his orchestral conducting debut in May of 2006 with a performance of Beethoven's Symphony No.2 and works by Greig and Waldteufel. His future plans for the orchestra include highlighting the talented musicians that reside in Dubai as well as featuring the exceptional young musicians of Dubais schools.
Despite his very busy schedule, Benjamin does find time for other activities. In March 2006 he was part of the opening ceremonies of the Dubai Opera Ball as a debutantes escort.
During the summer months, Benjamin resides at home in Wells, Minnesota, USA.
Philip Cree Founder conductor now works in Egypt.