Born into a family of brass band musicians, I began learning a variety of brass instruments at the age of eight, taught by my Dad. I played with Langbaurgh Brass alongside both my parents until I left school at 16 to join the Royal Marines Band Service as a cornet and violin player. Over the next 24 years, I had the privilege of traveling the world, performing music, and building a fulfilling career before retiring in 2023. In April 2024, I returned to my brass band roots by joining Cockerton Prize Silver Band, which has brought back many wonderful memories.