Raymond, the newly elected 10th President of the CIA, is currently serving his 13th year as NAO Chairperson, the longest term of any Chairperson to date.

Born in 1960, Raymond Bodell commenced playing the accordion at the age of five. He achieved all three Diplomas of the British College of Accordionists by the age of 17 before gaining three Diploma's from the London College of Music and Trinity College of Music.

Raymond successfully competed in many accordion festivals including gaining first prize in the UK Virtuoso, Senior Bell Trophy (17 & Under), and the Junior (15 & Under) solo National titles and has competed internationally in various festivals. He continued his accordion studies in France under the helm of Jacques Mornet.

He is former Head of Music at Harrow High School, and an Examiner of the British College of Accordionists. Raymond has extensive adjudicating experience at numerous international festivals including the Baltica Harmonica (St Petersburg), Castelfidardo (Italy), Jeunesse Musicale (Slovakia), International Grand Prix (France and Switzerland), American Teachers Guild Annual Festival (ATG) as well as on numerous occasions at the Coupe Mondiale (CIA) events.

Raymond, together with his wife Anna are owners of Charnwood Publishing, the largest accordion music publishing house in the UK.

In recent years Raymond Bodell has prepared students for many festivals with great success as well as being invited to give numerous masterclasses. He believes strongly that our young accordionists are the future and to this end must be given every opportunity.

In 2004 the NAO presented him with their Merit Award "In appreciation of the Tireless and Inspirational Work for the Accordion both Nationally and Internationally."


Contact: Raymond & Anna Bodell

Jardins D Alizarine 121
1416 Avenue H Guillaume
Tamaris
83500 La Seyne Sur Mer
FRANCE

Tel +44 (0) 7770 450 840
Email: ray.anna@btopenworld.com