My style and the way I perform are staples of my work. They are the reason why both my schedule and the venues where I play are full. While I’ve been told that I make it look effortless and that I’m a natural, let’s be real, I wasn’t born that way, haha! The expression and stage personality of musicians are things that require years to develop. They aren’t something we do by ourselves, either.
I want to start here a series to pay tribute to seven people whose influence helped shape the musician that I am today. Through their teachings and example, they allowed me to explore my ways of expression and hone my skills. Their support kept me on track despite the challenges and setbacks I found along the way, and really, every time I play, I celebrate them with my music.
Let’s start at secondary school, where I met the first two teachers who would be fundamental to my music journey. At the time, I had the opportunity to go into the music storage room and choose any instrument I wanted to learn. I was immediately drawn towards the shiny, metal ones. Whilst I’m not sure if the instrument that I wanted was a saxophone, I do remember Mr. Ashworth, the music teacher, telling me that I should learn the clarinet first if I wanted to play it one day. I happily followed his advice. My experience with the clarinet was filled with squeaks and quacks, it was quite a bumpy ride! However, it did prepare me for the saxophone, for which I’m forever grateful.
The other teacher who marked my understanding of music at the time was Ms. Kirby. She managed the bookings for the steel pans band I ended up being part of in secondary school. Thanks to her efforts, we performed all around the country and also in Germany. Sometimes, she talked about the administrative work she was doing, explaining how she got and handled gigs for us. Observing her dealing with costumers was formative. I implemented many of her strategies when, decades later, I took the step to become a full-time musician.
Music education at the school level is essential. Without it, I wouldn’t be where I am today. For this reason, it’s extremely important that we all make our voices heard by responding to the Curriculum and Assessment Review that the Government is currently conducting. There’s time until tomorrow, Friday 22nd November. If you have time to spare tonight, please, answer to the sections of the review that are relevant to you. More information and resources on this post.
Articles in this series:
