For over 20 years I have been active in live music-making in London and elsewhere, mostly orchestral and opera. This includes playing in and organising various musical ensembles and events part-time, alongside my work in education.
PERFORMING
I read Music (and Maths) at Royal Holloway, University of London and have studied flute with Simon Desorgher and Anna Pope. My performance specialism was early to mid 20th century repertoire. I was also a founder of the university’s Contemporary Music Group, and like working with current composers.
Current playing includes:
Amici Orchestra (1st chair 2008-), which specialises in one-day ‘scratch’ charity fundraiser concerts
Fulham Opera (by invitation, 1st chair 2012-)
Palace Opera (by invitation, 1st chair 2017-)
Saffron Opera Group (by invitation, 2nd/pic 2014-)
Edinburgh Players Opera Group (by invitation, rotating principal 2005-)
Auxiliary/temporary player with a wide range of semi-pro and amateur/community groups in London and beyond, with particular experience of filling in challenging parts at short notice on minimal rehearsals.
Recordings include:
Jocelyn Campbell: Flute on ‘Green Border’ (orchestral, live recording of world premiere)
Peter Fender: Flute or piccolo on all orchestral works on the album Speechless
Blanc Canvas: Flute on ‘Positivity’ from the album Blanc Canvas
Master Pi Flute + piccolo on ‘In a Moment’ from the album Master Pi
Kat Vipers: Flute + piccolo on ‘Just Like Jerry Lee’ from the album Hot Air Balloon
David Freeman: Penny whistle on ‘Part Time Father’ from the album Going Out Without Makeup and ‘Good People’ (single)
David Lyon: Penny whistle on ‘Birds Fly, Fish Swim’ (single)
FIXING
I’m one of the organisers and the woodwind fixer for Fulham Opera’s Orchestral Workshops (2013-). I also fix individual orchestral musicians or whole woodwind sections on a freelance basis for various other groups and events. Contact me for rates, special arrangements for charities and friends.)
I run a mailing list for amateur and semi-pro flute players in and around London, on which I forward one-off playing opportunities (mostly unpaid) as and when they occur, e.g. dep needed for rehearsal cover, auxiliary players needed for large-scored work, etc.
ADDITIONAL
I love playing bass flute but unfortunately do not have my own instrument, so borrow or hire when required – thus a little more notice needed. I have also doubled on various saxes, recorders, penny whistles, piano/keyboards, percussion, and sing backing vocals or choral (alto) as and when required.
I have some experience arranging music, taking sectional rehearsals and as an assistant conductor for amateur orchestras, choruses and chamber groups.
