I started as a child on the recorder and still play it very occasionally. In my mid-teens, I decided to try something a "bit better" and started clarinet. (I have since realised that the clarinet is not necessarily "better", but it is still generally perceived as a better instrument). After a few lessons, I started at school and then joined the Croydon Schools Wind Orchestra (CSWO), under the baton of Malcolm Ellingworth. Very soon after I joined, the CSWO won the wind orchestra category on the National competition (held in Fairfield Halls, Croydon). About a year after I had started the clarinet, I became Principal Clarinet and Leader of the CSWO, which was quite a challenge, and after a tempestuous year we again won the national competition. During my stint in the CSWO I met a teacher a who became a life-long friend and taught me a great deal about music: that friend is Simon Ballard who is a well-published composer and an active concert pianist.

I have over 38 years' experience of clarinet playing under various conductors and conducted on several occasions during that time.

In June 2004 I was appointed the Conductor and Director of Music for the Harrow Concert Band.

In January 2010 I was appointed the Conductor and Director of Music for the Thame Concert Band.

I have attended conducting courses run by the Royal British Legion learning from Captain Ted Whealing and David Cole both of whom have vast experience conducting in the Royal Marines (both concluded their careers in the Royal Marines as Director of Music on the Royal Yacht Britannia) and elsewhere.

I have been playing for the Central Band of The Royal British Legion since 1992, over 5 years of which as Principal Clarinet, now playing mainly Bass Clarinet and Eb Clarinet. I have made several recordings with the band - both for CDs (some of which are available here) and Radio; including two for Radio 2's Listen to the Band and for Radio 1 and Radio 3. I have played at several prestigious venues and occasions, including Buckingham Palace, Fairfield Halls, Westminster Abbey, Wimbledon Tennis (Centre Court and "Henman Hill"), and Lords Cricket Ground. I have also appeared on television several times as part of the Central Band's performances. On many occasions I have appeared on the same stage as well known performers, including Dame Vera Lynn, Richard Baker, Hayley Westenra, Norman Wisdom - to name but a few! - and in the presence of several members of the Royal Family, including the Queen. I have played in the grounds of Buckingham Palace on three occasions.

I have, in the past, played Principal Clarinet for and conducted the Fanborough Concert Band of the Royal British Legion.

I have also played in several chamber groups and orchestras in various concerts and, of course, just for the love of playing.

I have conducted several amateur orchestras and other bands. In 2008, I was invited to conduct one of my own arrangements for a series of concerts, including in the Fairfield Halls, Croydon.

I teach clarinet and music theory from beginner upwards, both children and adults.

I have made several arrangements (more details) of pieces for various groups, but mainly for bands, one of which (Lark in the Clear Air) was recorded by the Central Band of the Royal British Legion on their 'S Wonderful CD, with the excellent Caroline Docherty as flute soloist. Another, Tiger Rag, has been recorded on another excellent Central Band CD "Fame", which is available here. I have also been commissioned to arrange several pieces for a flute quartet; All Keyed Up.

I aim, as a Conductor and teacher, to provide a firm but friendly style that strongly encourages enjoyment of the music, both for the players and audiences. As a teacher, I aim to mix a firm learning experience with patience and encouragement and to teach many styles of music.

OTHER THINGS

Most of my working life has not been in music: I was an IT professional. It wasn't called IT when I started as a humble Computer Programmer and I have seen the computer world change dramatically from the room-sized machines through to the modern desktop models with so much more computing power.

I have several interests beyond music. These include cricket, crosswords, formula-1, science and detective fiction (books and tv/film) and computing. But music takes most of my time.

(One of these days I will get a decent picture taken!)