Read through my most recent articles:

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

See a full list of articles.

 Subscribe to latest articles.

See more upcoming events.

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

Listen to my thoughts, ideas and compositions via my new podcast.

+iTunes +ZENCast +Zune +My Yahoo!

 Subscribe to podcast.

I must begin by complimenting NSWO on the concert and performance on Saturday. It was by no means flawless but it was full of colour, commitment, musicality and maturity. The programme was challenging in absolutely every aspect of ensemble playing from sensitivity to stamina, from technical proficiency to simplicity. The players put in a massive effort in terms of preparation and into the concentration and energy required on the night.

The huge audience came to support the concert and the group has quite clearly earned this support. As every orchestra knows, a supportive regular audience is the life-blood of amateur music and NSWO have put a lot of effort into nurturing this. The orchestra ensures that throughout the year, the programmes are varied and often popular but that they may well be treated to a unique wind work or something more challenging. This trust culminated in a resounding endorsement of both the music and the skills shown by the group to perform it and this will cement the relationship between audience and group even further. There was a moment of complete unity after the performance of Dance Movements that was instigated from the auditorium not the stage; magical!

I am very pleased with the way things are progressing in Nottingham. There will be no room for complecency though and to keep this standard will mean a huge effort from absolutely everyone next September.