Adjudicator & AoBBA Member

Steve's musical journey began at age 8 when he learned a brass instrument and joined the Porthywaen Silver band. His passion led him to study at Liverpool, Trinity College of Music, and Salford University, where he specialised in performing arts and education. Over the years, Steve established a successful career as a peripatetic brass teacher and later as Head of Expressive Arts. Until 2022, he served as Headteacher at a specialist school for children with additional needs, ensuring every student had the opportunity to learn a brass instrument or keyboard at no cost.

Steve's expertise in brass band adjudication was shaped by mentorship from the renowned C. Brian Buckley through the Welsh Regional Council adjudicators training scheme. He furthered his qualifications with a Licentiate Diploma in brass band adjudication from Salford University/NABBC in 2006. Steve has since judged prestigious competitions, including Regional Championships, Lower Section National Finals, and brass band contests in the UK, Switzerland, and Belgium.

Beyond adjudicating, Steve is an examiner for 'A' level and GCSE music, an Arts Award Advisor for Trinity Guildhall, and a tutor for various UK brass band courses. As a cornet and trumpet player, he has performed with brass bands, orchestras, and theatrical productions across the UK, including for the BBC and ITV. As a keyboard player, Steve performs at weddings, civic events, and black-tie dinners, and serves as a celebrant and musician at Top Note Ceremonies.

Steve is a member of the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators and represents Wales on the European Brass Band Association adjudicators list. He is currently Director of Music of the West Midlands Police Brass Band and Musical Director of the Porthywaen Silver Band and Shropshire Brass Ensemble.