- How old were you when you first became interested in music?
I was introduced to playing an instrument through the Wider Opportunities programme when I was just 8 years old and was taught guitar, but it wasn’t until the next year when I was taught cornet and I started to really like learning instruments and playing music. I started to really notice the intricacies of songs, not just the words and the catchy beats, but the way the harmonies moved the music and how they made me feel, how the melody danced through phrases and the profound impact music had on me.
- Who have been your role models and why?
My role models have been my first sax teacher Jaki and the head of the music service Andrew White. From the moment I picked up my saxophone Jaki was always pushing me to be the best that I can be and always believed in my potential. Without her I am sure I wouldn’t be the musician or even the person that I am today. Andrew White on the other hand, is like a crazy uncle who sometimes gets too excited but it’s always for the right reasons and in good spirit. Despite his giddy exterior he is truly full of wisdom and experience that he caringly passes on to those around him. Having practically grown up in the Youth Concert Band he taught me a lot of valuable lessons not only about music, but about life as a whole.
- Why did you choose the instrument that you are now playing?
I had just gotten into year 7 and I was given a list of instruments that were available to learn at St Mary’s, and as I went down the list something jumped out at me, “Saxophone”. Just one thought came to my head when I saw that word… “Saxophones are cool”. Little did I know that the choice I had just made would change my life and when I picked up the saxophone, it was like Harry Potter picking up his wand for the first time.
- How would you describe your achievements and successes?
Throughout my time as a saxophonist I have achieved far beyond what I thought I could and played in places I only dreamt of. I’ll never forget the feeling of pride I had when I was given my Grade 8 certificate only to read I had not only passed, but passed with distinction. And playing in such amazing places across Europe, the highlight being when we played at Disneyland Paris’ concert hall, is something I will always take with me. Despite all this, one of my proudest accomplishments was playing for my teacher as she walked down the aisle on her wedding day and I will always cherish that memory.
- How do you feel being in a band has influenced other parts of your life in a positive way?
Being part of a band has quite literally become a part of who I am. It has encouraged me to be more confident and more social, and it is like having multiple families for me. Knowing that every person I play with has the same passion and enjoyment for music and to share that with others really gives me a sense of familiarity. Needless to say it has affected my work life, now that I work at the Music Service I hope to support and encourage those around me to explore their love for music also.
- What is your ultimate musical ambition?
I want others to continue to be offered the same opportunities as I had. Without the support of my teachers, family, friends and so many others, I wouldn’t be the man I am today. I hope that those I support through the Music Service will find their passion for music and follow it wherever it may take them.
- What do you enjoy doing when you are not playing an instrument?
When I’m not playing an instrument, I enjoy playing games at home or hanging out with my friends. More often than not we will just drive around playing music and having a good time, however we’re always trying different things like bowling, golf, go-karting and any other fun we can find ourselves in.
- What was the first CD that you ever bought/downloaded or were given?
When I was quite young my parents owned a hotel and in the lounge was a jukebox. I remember my nan would put on Karma Chameleon by the Culture Club and I would dance around the room with it on, enjoying the harmonica on the song. My family could probably tell from that point on I was going to be a handful and a bit of an eccentric!