I initially went to university as a composer and got side-tracked into Early music. I let composition drop for a few years but was drawn back to it by necessity.

As a teacher I learnt early on that using the published ‘packs’ for school ensembles is not very satisfactory. For a start, they are expensive and quickly eat up the music departments budget, but also, they aren’t aimed at the specific combination of instruments and abilities you have in your band.

I soon began to create my own arrangements (orchestras, bands and choirs) so that everyone had a part suitable to their ability. Also, I could chose the music I thought would appeal to those who would be performing, rather than just looking for what I could afford of published material.

After a while I began to compose music for my orchestras and bands, initially in a pastiche manner but gradually bringing in more of my own style. It was a relief to find out my music went down well with the pupils and audiences.