Jae, who was born in Port Talbot, South Wales, began his musical career at the age of 14. Since leaving college, Jae has gone on to conduct for West Side Story, Cats, Oliver! and Fiddler On The Roof to name a few.

Over the past 21 years Jae has had the opportunity to combine his passion for classical music with his love of live entertainment, working as Musical Director on an ever-increasing number of outdoor spectacular classical concerts.

How long have you been conducting at Castle Howard’s Proms Spectacular?

I first became involved 16 or 17 years ago when the promoters approached me to see if I would take part. I had a bit of a reputation for being an entertainer as well as conductor and I think they were looking for someone with a big personality to lead the Proms extravaganza.  I was thrilled to be asked of course and still love it to this day. Every year I step out onto the stage I know we are all in for such a wonderful evening. 

What makes the Castle Howard Proms Spectacular so special?

Well of course a big part of it is the beautiful location, the surroundings are stunning. The magnificent house rises up behind the crowd and the lakes and Howardian Hills surround the arena creating a perfect sort of amphitheatre. Personally, I love to stroll through the grounds in the afternoon after I’ve rehearsed and when the audience is just starting to arrive, everyone is so warm and welcoming and I often see the same faces year on year.  Come rain or shine, the crowds always turn out ready for a good night and the spirit is contagious.

What is your favourite part of the Proms Spectacular?

I love the spitfire flyover. Nowadays several of the big outdoor Proms have flyovers but we were the first to do it at Castle Howard and it will always have a special place in my heart. It’s a part of the show the audience really look forward to and you can sense the anticipation building. The second half of the concert always have a wonderful feel to it too, as the light begins to fade and we approach the sections everyone has been waiting for; Rule Britannia, Jerusalem and Land of Hope and Glory. There are always firework and encores galore; it’s a very special feeling standing on the stage looking out over the cheering crowd.

I really enjoy the newer pieces too; we’ve always opened the second half with Star Wars which is a really powerful piece and in previous years we’ve done ET, Superman and Raiders of the Lost Ark, which was particularly memorable as I donned a pink cowboy hat and whip. This year we’ll be doing Jurassic Park for the first time which should be fantastic.

You enjoy a unique view looking out over the crowds from the stage; what’s caught your eye over the years?

No matter what, the crowd always throws themselves entirely into the Proms experience. Last year all I could see was a sea of umbrellas but the atmosphere was fantastic nonetheless and it brought out the true Great British spirit. Union Jack flags are always billowing in the breeze too along with a few other nations; being a Welshman I’m always happy to see the red dragon in the mix.

What’s your picnic must-have for the perfect Proms experience?

I can only look on in envy from the stage at the wonderful picnics people bring along with them; some go all out with tables and chairs, candelabras and champagne and the loveliest looking buffets. I think you can’t go wrong with a nice bottle of wine and a few sandwiches, oh and a thermos of tea too just in case!