Alex Parsons

What do you do?
I am Head of Music at Haberdasher’s Borough Academy.

What is your background?
After attending the BRIT School, I studied a BMus at the University of Surrey. My principal study was electric guitar and following my degree I worked as a session musician. During this time, I was fortunate to with several notable grime artists such as Stormzy, Lil Simz and Nick Brewer. I also worked as pit musician for many London productions. Concurrently I was also working a peripatetic tutor teaching guitar and drum kit. This led to an opportunity to train as a music teacher in one of the schools I was giving lessons in. I have been teaching for seven years and have loved every minute. Through my work I get to play music every day and share my passion.

What are you most looking forward to working with Musical Futures on this programme?
I am excited to network and collaborate with other music educators. You can often feel like an island as music teacher. I would love the opportunity to work with other classroom teachers to gain different perspectives.

Five Words that sum up Musical Futures
Inclusive, versatile, accessible, engaging and empowering!

What music are you listening to at the moment?
Cory Wong, Pres to MECO, HAIM, Snarky Puppy, Ralph Vaughan Williams, Prince, Childish Gambino