Sam’s Music Story
Sam grew up in the Isle of Man. Most well- known musicians from there are generally brass players so it may not come as a surprise that Sam is a professional trumpeter. This was slightly by chance however as due to an issue with his vocal cords as a child he was advised not to do sports where shouting might cause damage, and so as an alternative activity for a Saturday morning he instead went to the local brass band from aged 8 years old.
Surrounded by older players, including an ex-Grenadier Guard musician called Ray Gillis who gave helpful guidance, Sam learnt the cornet by playing in the band. It was the happy chance that international cornet soloist, James Shepherd, spotted Sam whilst performing with the band and suggested to his parents that Sam might want to audition for a music school. Sam was not from a musical family and moving to Chetham’s School of Music at the age of 14 to board and learn the trumpet was a big step. Determined to pursue music though Sam made the move and began his studies with the principal trumpet of the Hallé Orchestra, Gareth Small.
Following some happy years at Chetham’s the Guildhall School of Music and Drama was the obvious next step, to be taught by Paul Cosh. He then completed his master’s degree at the Royal College of Music.
Since then, Sam has maintained a healthy balance between his teaching and performing careers. He teaches privately as well as holding the trumpet teaching position at Emanuel School in London. He also works as a tutor for junior orchestras and programmes like the London Symphony Orchestra Discovery Department and National Children’s Orchestra of Great Britain. Sam enjoys the variety of teaching different types of people and levels, from a complete beginner to those working towards their performance diplomas.