Caz Besterman Musician & Composer

Her orchestral suite Pictures of Bristol was premiered in 2015 by the Brunel Sinfonia and a previous work for orchestra, Mirror Romance, was performed in Clifton Cathedral. Her choral settings of World War One poetry including ‘In Flanders Fields‘ were showcased in the commemorative concert ‘Pity of War’ in 2018, featuring top composer Bob Chilcott. 

Caz has also composed music for film and for theatre, including student productions of Antigone and Journey’s End. Forthcoming compositions include contemporary songs, piano solos for young players, a work for unaccompanied SATB, and further Christmas repertoire for upper voices.  

Aside from composing, Caz works as an Examiner for ABRSM (the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music). She undertakes regular consultancy for ABRSM in Indonesia and visits to the region, including giving seminars for music teachers. 

Caz is also Project Manager for Together in Tone community music in Somerset, and a Trustee of The Finzi Trust.  She helps on a number of initiatives including Taunton Children's Orchestra and the Dovetail Orchestra for refugees and asylum-seekers. She is passionate about ensuring access to music and instrumental opportunities for all.

Caz has taught in senior schools for over twenty years and has mentored many young people in composition. She sings and plays viola in several Somerset music groups, as well as No Strings Attached string quartet and the Chorba Ensemble.