Les Gutteridge has always been keenly interested in and involved in music although his degree is in mathematics. He was awarded Choral Scholarships both at Royal Holloway College, University of London and at Winchester Cathedral whilst studying at King Alfred's College, Winchester.

Les studied the flute with Ann Starkey in Moseley, and with Elizabeth Pugh in Wolverhampton.

He taught at several Midlands schools and ultimately became Head of Mathematics and Information Technology at St Dominic's School, Brewood.

He left teaching in 1993 in order to pursue a successful career as an independent computer consultant.

Les is an accomplished composer and conductor. Several choirs in the Midlands have performed his works. His choral music has been performed in several UK cathedrals, notably: Westminster & Tewkesbury Abbeys; Ripon, Salisbury, Lincoln Cathedrals.

Adrian Partington and the CBSO Youth Choir performed his Coventry Carol in Symphony Hall when he was in charge.
Christopher Robinson and City of Birmingham Choir performed Sweet was the Song in Symphony Hall.
The Story won the City of Birmingham Choir Carol Competition 1999 and was performed by school children in Symphony Hall that year.