Variety is a hallmark of Bernard’s career. As well as assisting on operas at the Bolshoi, Bavarian State Opera, Châtelet, Valencia and Strasbourg, he has played orchestral piano, organ, and celesta with practically every UK symphony orchestra, notably LPO and LSO, and harpsichord/organ continuo with a wide range of groups including OAE, La Nuova Musica & Seville Baroque Orchestra. His work as opera répétiteur has been centred latterly at the Teatro Real Madrid and Glyndebourne; a particular passion is working with choirs at all levels.
His radio, television and film credits include Cold War and The Duchess (Keira Knightley). He has played in West End musicals, and at Sadler’s Wells for Carlos Acosta and American Ballet Theatre – and above all for several of Matthew Bourne’s shows (notably Edward Scissorhands & Red Shoes), touring also in the UK and France.