Howard took over as Principal Conductor of Settle Orchestral Society in1992 after being asked to guest conduct the orchestra in a joint performance of “The Magic Flute” with Craven Opera Group. It was during his 15-year tenure that the orchestra underwent its most significant period of change, growing both in terms of numbers of players and standard of playing. He developed a strong community-orientated focus for the orchestra and this was maintained through his encouragement of players of all abilities. He also introduced the junior membership scheme, which epitomised his policy of providing opportunities for youngsters to experience orchestral playing. This initiative has ensured that there is always a refreshing mix of ages within the orchestra.

During his time with the orchestra, Howard worked in partnership with three leaders, beginning with Anne Heaton in 1992. Kenneth Mitchell took over in 2001, followed by current leader Tracey Keeley in 2002. In their respective fields of wind and strings, conductor and leaders used their professional playing and peripatetic teaching experience to lead frequent sectional rehearsals, helping players improve and develop their skills,

Howard’s choice of  programmes expanded and improved the orchestra’s repertoire whilst at the same time giving its members the chance to play many different styles of music. Concert programmes ranged from symphonies and concertos to ballet, opera and light music pieces, and only very rarely were any works repeated.  Under Howard’s directorship, the orchestra performed well over 300 works in 90 regular concerts and various special events. Several of these were joint concerts with the Langcliffe Singers, including the Verdi Requiem and Mendelssohn’s Elijah.
Howard’s 38 years as a professional clarinettist provided the contacts that led to concerto performances with Marat Bisengaliev (violin), Benjamin Frith (piano) and the Gould Trio. He also helped to initiate 2 very successful day workshops, attended by over 70 musicians from Yorkshire, Lancashire and Cumbria, and a World Premiere of “Striding Dales” by Christopher Beardsley, both events supported by Making Music.

On his retirement in 2007, Settle Orchestra awarded Howard the title of Emeritus Conductor, in recognition of his important contribution to the Society and his many years of dedication to its development and success.