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Programme Biography
First there were the obligatory piano lessons. Then a more imaginative switch to the oboe. Not much competition in those days so rapid progress to principal player in local and regional youth and community orchestras and then study with the legendary Leon Goossens.
Conducting takes over, first with hundreds (literally) of concerts with amateur orchestras, choirs and opera companies.
A lucky break: wins a place to study with Franco Ferrara in Siena. Ferrara awards him the coveted Diploma di Merito and he is invited to conduct around Europe.
Arrives to guest conduct in Kuopio, Finland. They need a Music Director and sign him up. National recognition, amazing increase in audiences. Guest Conductor for pretty well every orchestra in Finland.
Ten years later a major change to conduct huge fireworks and laser concerts in England: over 300 of them. Very commercial, big success: a symphony orchestra makes money!
Then America: the South Carolina Philharmonic. Musicians, audience and administration all choose him as Music Director. What a great time. Fourteen years of wonderful concerts, great music, life-long friends.
Meanwhile, all sorts of other interesting performances: Buxton Opera Festival, Ballet du Nord, youth orchestras, and lots and lots of opera.
And the next few years: back to Finland and the States as a guest conductor, directing festivals in England, long distance back-packing.October, 2009