Music Devon

Stephen started his musical career at the age of eleven playing the cornet with the Northop Silver Band in North Wales, before changing to the trombone age 13. He won many trophies in the both the Welsh and National Brass Band Top Section competitions, and was an active member within county youth music.

At the age of 16 Stephen joined the Band of Her Majesties Royal Marines as Principle Trombonist, training for three years under Professor Albert Thompson (Halle and BBC Scottish National). A total of 17 years with the Royal Marines has meant that he has played in some of the most famous venues around the world, and worked with leading musicians / groups e.g. Don Lusher, Gordon Campbell and Paul Eshlby (BBC Big Band), Black Dyke, Glen Miller and Sid Lawrence Orchestras, London Philharmonic etc.

During his service career Stephen spent five years as a Senior Brass Instructor at the RM School of Music in Deal in Kent, and also taught in Kent College / prep school, St.Edmunds and Kings School Canterbury.

As well as being a registered teacher with Devon Music, Stephen is the Lower Brass Teacher at Torquay Boys Grammar School, and the Senior Brass Teacher with the Torbay and South Devon Music Centre. He is a Licentiate of the London College of Music, and fully trained / practiced in all aspects of musical ensembles, conducting and musical theory. With many years of teaching experience, and knowledge to pass on to his pupils, he is looking forward to increasing his work with schools throughout Devon.