Richard has always incorporated music into his work and has worked as MD/composer on productions including ‘Puss in Boots’ for State of Play Theatre, ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ for West Bank Park Theatre and ‘Sleeping Beauty and the Beast’ for Badapple Theatre.

Richard is the Musical Director of Harrogate Male Voice Choir and successfully ran a project for new singers in 2026 called ‘Sing When You’re Winning’, encouraging men to try singing for the first time to improve physical and mental wellbeing. Previously, Richard was on the musical team of York Philharmonic Male Voice Choir for 15 years and worked as conductor for Malton’s Ryedale Voices in 2018-20. Through lockdown, he worked with these choirs, running virtual rehearsals and creating both practice tracks and virtual choir pieces, and was invited to run sessions for Leeds MVC and Harrogate MVC as well. He also developed his composition and arrangement work: his piece ‘Keep Singing’ was published by Banks music and his song ‘For the love of Singing’ was commissioned by York Theatre Royal. Richard is now permanent MD of Harrogate MVC and the small ensemble Sound Fellows and continues to compose/arrange music for them.

“Richard’s blend of encouragement, authenticity and experience, plus his ability to be in-tune both within rehearsal and socially outside, has made for a very welcoming and accepting time.”

“Having never sung in public before, I approached the SWYW course with some trepidation. However, it turned out that the course was one of the most enjoyable and uplifting things I have ever done. Richard Kay was our MD for the 10 week course and was outstanding. He’s engaging, enthusiastic, inspiring and patient. The Wednesday night training sessions were the highlight of my week.”

Choir member feedback

Below are some video samples of Richard’s work.