Read through my most recent articles:

• A year of Progress
• Review: Nottingham Symphonic Winds, Lakeside Arts Centre

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Learn about the ensembles I've had involvement in:

• Harlequin Brass Ensemble
• Leeds College of Music Wind Ensemble
• National Saxophone Choir of Great Britain
• Nottingham Symphonic Wind Orchestra
• Phoenix Concert Band
• Yorkshire Wind Orchestra

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I took over as Musical Director of this excellent orchestra in January 2006. They are one of the best-organised amateur musical groups in the country and that is largely because of their founder and organiser, Margaret Frogson. Watching her in action is a real treat and the musicians know that they are all very fortunate to have Margaret and her team looking after them.

Rehearsals are generally very well attended and players know that if they do not occupy their seat, then very soon someone else will. At the same time the atmosphere is warm, friendly and industrious.

After the weekly notices all birthdays are acknowledged with a rendition of the famous tune in ever varying styles by the trombone section. The group has socials and concerts throughout the year in a regular series of events, which keep them very busy.

Musically, I found the group to be quite disciplined, technically able, reasonably aware, if a little lacking in sparkle and punch. Eric L. Hinton had certainly encouraged some good practice in his years with the group although I’m not sure that they were actually inspired.

It took a few months to get the music to live and the performances to jump up and dance. I have conducted two fairly tough programmes with them now and they have risen to the challenge. Our motto has been; “We do not charge the audience for the notes and rhythms. We play those for free! It’s the way that we play them that makes it worth paying for a ticket!”

I do not think that I have heard the best of the NSWO yet but I am certain that with sufficient commitment and energy they can become a really excellent wind orchestra and that is going to be my aim.

I will keep updating the site with reports of their progress so if you want to come and hear a concert, please look at the events page on this site for details. If you come to a concert, come and chat in the interval. I am always happy to discuss any matters arising from articles on the site.

I will post a general review of the Cafe Culture Concert next week.