How long have you been working with Musical Futures?
I first came across Musical Futures when it was a pilot scheme. It has shaped and completely transformed my teaching ever since. While I worked at my previous school, I had the privilege of training new music teachers and ensured they attended a Musical Futures training course as early as possible.
What do you do?
I have been a music teacher for 17 years. I started at my previous school as an NQT, promoted to Head of Music and was there for 15 years. I then moved to my current school as Curriculum Leader of Performing Arts.
What is your background?
I first showed a keen interest in music at the age of 5 (my grandparents had an old piano I would tinker on and my grandad was the church organist) and had my first piano lesson on my 6th birthday. At primary school I was offered the chance to have cornet lessons and this is where I discovered my passion lay. At high school I was a member of several music ensembles and even appeared on Blue Peter!
I studied music at Huddersfield University and played in a brass band for many years.
Five Words that sum up Musical Futures
Exciting, Engaging, Inclusive, Inspiring, Brilliant
What music are you listening to at the moment?
I don’t have a specific genre of music as my favourite, I like all sorts, although I would say Rock is up there!
“To play a wrong note is insignificant; to play without passion is inexcusable”. Beethoven.