Early Days
I started playing the guitar at the age of fifteen in my home town of Horsham. My early influences include Clapton and bands ranging from Huey Lewis to Bon Jovi and Kiss. I took lessons for around eight months mainly reading music and learning Folk/Country basics. I then moved to Rock guitar lessons for around one year. My interests then expanded to include other styles - Classical, Funk, Jazz and Heavy Metal.
I practiced for at least six hours every day and joined my first group at eighteen years old. This group played mainly covers of popular songs at pub gigs. After playing for several years in various bands I joined newly-forming group "Goodfellas" and played with top quality guys for five years or so. During this time with "The Fellas" I formed a duo with the vocalist and played acoustic covers in various styles.
After taking singing lessons, I began performing solo gigs on an acoustic guitar and also played at various functions on Spanish classical guitar.
Guitarist of the Year Competitions
In 1996/97 I entered the "National Guitarist of the Year" competition run by "Guitarist" magazine (electric guitar). I reached the final six and played an original entry piece "Big Brother" at the Wembley Conference Centre at the National Music Show.
In 1998/99 I entered the "Acoustic Guitarist of the Year" competition and again reached the final six and played at the show. Although I didn't win, I was told that no one had ever reached finals of both categories and that it showed versatility.
My more recent guitar playing influences have ranged from Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Paul Gilbert and Jennifer Battern to John Williams, Adrian Legg and Albert Lee.
In 2009 I was an online finalist in the International Guitar Idol Competition with an entry based on my original composition 'Friday Night Fiesta'.
Present
My solo gigs have evolved so that I am now playing a broad mixture of songs from the 1950's to the present. I'm using both acoustic and electric guitars, and perform some songs to professional backing tracks to give a "full band" sound.
I also write my own original music. My songs and instrumental pieces are in various styles, including 'Flamrock', a mixture of Rock and Flamenco guitar.
Now based in Glasgow, Scotland, I travel all over the UK to play gigs ranging from pubs and clubs to weddings and private parties, including house parties and corporate events.
Last updated: 20 May 2011
