left Christ’s Hospital in 2004 in hope of pursuing a career in performance, and was fortunate to gain a place at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, where I gained a BMus (hons) degree in Clarinet performance in 2008.

I decided I wanted to further my education, so I applied for a place at the Royal Academy of Music to study for a Master’s degree. After gaining a place I needed to find the funds to pay for my tuition fees, which were unfortunately extremely high.

This is where the BSB came to my help. In previous months I had been trying hard to accrue the fees by myself, as at that stage I had not been offered any other financial support. So I was advised to get in touch with the BSB to tell them about my situation.

I was quite humbled by the willingness to help, seeing as Christ’s Hospital had provided me with such a solid and encouraging environment for 7 years, I found it difficult to go back and ask them for more, but they were kind, supportive and very understanding.
It was an amazing feeling to know that I could accept my place at the Royal Academy of Music. I would not have been able to continue my education without them at such a crucial stage in my development as a performer.

Since leaving the Royal Academy of Music, I have been freelancing regularly with Orchestras such as the Philharmonia, London Philharmonic Orchestra and BBC Symphony Orchestra. I have also just joined the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra as their new principal bass clarinettist.

None of the above would have been possible to achieve without the BSB. I am truly indebted to them and having called upon their services for help, I can see how extremely vital this organisation is to Old Blues in need.

I really hope to be able to give back in any way that I can. Thank you.