Born: Essex

Studied: I studied at Leeds University with Rob Burtenshaw, then the Royal College of Music with Lindsay Shilling, then took part in the LPOs Foyle Future Firsts (FFF scheme). Since then I spent many years freelancing with various degrees of success.

Joined: 2022

Favourite piece of music: Bruckner’s Symphony No.7 holds a special place in my heart as it was one of the first big symphonic pieces I got to know. The brass writing is exhausting but so fun to play!

First ballet or concert you saw: I remember seeing Mahler's Symphony No.3 with my first teacher, which completely blew my mind!

First album: The seminal album Spice by Spice Girls.

Favourite ballet to play: Swan Lake. The last act is both the most exciting and most exhausting thing to play!

Why the trombone? At my primary school, all students had an opportunity to try out a range of instruments. The trombone was the only one I could make a noise on! I love it’s rich sonority, particularly when playing in a section. There are few things as rewarding to me as playing a simple trombone chorale. I also love the versatility of the instrument and being able to play in other styles and groups.

Most challenging piece to play: Per Nørgård’s Symphony No.7 because I can’t play it! It still haunts me!

Alternative career: I’ve always liked the idea of being a therapist.

Most challenging non musical thing you have done: My wife and I have recently become foster carers, which is both one of the most rewarding and challenging things we’ve done.

Place that inspires you: The Craven Arms. A home away from home!

Is there anyone outside of the music world that inspires you and why? Alex Honnold climbed El Capitan in Yosemite without ropes. He doesn’t inspire me to want to do it, but his application, preparation, determination and bravery are very inspiring.