Over twenty years ago, I started playing music in school. Beginning with the clarinet, I moved on to saxophone. Then, I got a guitar in my hands and the rest is history.

From there, I started playing with other people and eventually in bands as a teenager. Once I got in to jazz music, I knew that I wanted to pursue a degree in music.

Formal guitar education for me began by studying classical guitar and advancing through Trinity Guildhall’s grade system (grades 1 - 8). Then, in high school, I advanced through the electric guitar grades as well.

Following high school, I pursued a degree in music at Newcastle University, majoring in guitar studies under the tutelage of Mick Wright (thanks for all the many lessons you taught me!)

I then moved to NYC and completed a masters degree at the New School, where I studied composition and audio production.

I’ve taught children and adults with varying degrees of capability. People who have barely held a guitar before and some who’ve been playing for years.

My first student began studying with me as a child and then went on to achieve a degree in music from Leeds College of Music. He continues to play professionally today (right on, Jack).

Lana knew only a few chords when she came to me and now is a confident fingerpicking acoustic guitar player. Michael had been playing for years when we met, but improved dramatically as a player by sharpening his theory.

On a few occasions, I even gave workshops to elementary school children in large groups. The goal was to get them to engage with and be excited by music.

My first paid gig was with the Maverick Mystery Tour, playing bass guitar at weddings. I went on from there to play in an established band with a record deal and booking festival dates in Europe.

Then, I began taking work as a live sound engineer, setting up and monitoring shows for acts that were touring the UK. After moving to NYC, I’ve taken post-production work for podcasts, animated web-series, and other digital media.

And of course, teaching music. My mentors knew the value in passing on the knowledge and wisdom they gained over the years and I feel strongly that all serious musicians should do the same.