In my mid-teens I wanted to play more and be involved with more ensembles, so I took to learning woodwinds, with many great teachers both locally and nationally I managed to bring my flute, clarinet and saxophones up to a level where I could be hired for working bands. Initially big bands and small mainstream jazz combos but also I discovered a love of traditional “bourbon street” style jazz, especially on clarinet.

I continued my studies and an opportunity arose to join the teaching team for Gloucestershire, with a full week of students on both brass and woodwind and gigs most weekends I soon filled every min of the day with music. I became heavily involved with the Adult education program conducting and tutoring adults from scratch and moulding them into musicians who would then go on to play in ensembles throughout Gloucestershire.

With more performing opportunities and connections both by road and air I decided to move to Bristol, continuing my studies with great tutors and developing not only my own ability in performing but also as a recognised teacher and conductor in the South West. My timetable allowed me to take several months of the year off to work as musical director for most of the main cruise lines, which gave me opportunity to travel, conduct and perform to thousands and with very talented musicians from all over the world.

I still continue to tour and perform both locally and nationally with the odd trip abroad but I am now home, continuing my career of performing, teaching and conducting in Bristol.