Meet our SWMS Tutor Team
Ben Sutcliffe
Residential Course Tutor: July 2025
(currently known as our Core Programme)
Ben is a composer, musical director, and violinist based near St Just, Cornwall.
He is the Creative Director, co-writer, and frontman of The People’s String Foundation, a dynamic string orchestra known for its wildly uplifting urban gypsy sound. Ben and his group have captivated audiences across Britain with their vibrant performances.
In collaboration with writing partner Zaid Al-Rikabi, Ben regularly takes to the road as Musical Director for national tours, bringing to life exciting and immersive theatrical productions such as Madame Lucinda’s Wonder Show.
As a performer, Ben has shared the stage with a diverse range of artists, including Corinne Bailey Rae, Natty, Leftfield, and Aruba Red. His versatility as a violinist has also seen him work with renowned acts like The Stranglers, Jim McCarty of The Yardbirds, Clay, The Noisettes, Ryan Jones, Frootful, Holly Rogers, and Harry Harding. In the studio, Ben has recorded with Tom Newman, producer of Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells.
Ben composed the instrumental music for the St Just Ordinalia in 2021 and serves as a musical director for the iconic Minack Theatre.
