I began learning the clarinet at the age of 10 with Walter Brewster, who continued to teach and inspire me until the age of 18. During these formative years I joined as many school bands and orchestras as I could, ranging from jazz groups, orchestras and wind bands. I also featured prominently in local groups, playing solos with the Dorchester Clarinet Choir. I also started to take part in music competitions, performing in the finals of the Dorchester and Weymouth music festivals and twice reaching the finals of the Wessex Young Musician of the Year competition.

After my A levels I was accepted into the University of Southampton, where I continued my studies with Roshan Hughes, formerly of the Bournemouth Sinfonietta. During my time at university I branched out into performing a variety of styles, using my solo performance exams to play works by such diverse composers as Stamitz, Saint-Saens, Milhaud, Penderecki and even Benny Goodman.

During my degree I also developed a passion for chamber music, forming the Clarinet Quartet “Reed our Lips” where I became proficient on bass clarinet. The quartet performed for many local events, including being one of the first groups to entertain people in the West Quay shopping centre. As well as chamber music, I toured Poland and Barcelona with the University Symphony Orchestra.

After leaving university I remained in the Southampton area and continue to play for various local groups, such as Mountbatten players and the Southampton Concert Wind Band.