As I study classical saxophone, my typical week is a combination of academic lessons and lectures about music theory and then I have lessons on saxophone performance with different teachers. Furthermore, I do a lot of work outside the conservatoire in wedding bands. I play with a function band called Sass and The Groove, with whom I play both private gigs like weddings and public gigs like our long-standing New Year gig at Holmfirth Picturedrome.

I just love performing! I love to get on stage and play my music and hopefully make people enjoy themselves.

I perform regularly at the conservatoire with their Big Band and Wind Band. I have also created my own ensembles with my classmates to make our own new musical opportunities.

I started Musica when I was 11 at Holme Valley in the Intermediate Wind Band. From there, I progressed into the Senior Wind Band and Big Band, and then moved into the central ensembles – I was in Musica Youth Jazz and Musica Soul Band.

My favourite memories from Musica are from the Great North Big Band Festival in Durham. We got to play every year and compete against some of the best big bands in the country. I loved watching the other bands for inspiration, and thrived on the friendly yet competitive atmosphere.

I found that the biggest thing Musica taught me was to take any and all opportunities that are offered. Usually, they will end up taking you somewhere new and into a new experience, and being open to trying new things will really benefit you overall.

I would say this to everyone, regardless of where you are with your music: listen to and consume as much music as possible. Go to live music venues, or attend jam sessions, and listen to loads of new music. This will make you progress so much, and it’s so vital to developing your sound and knowledge to become a better musician.