Classical Music

Summarise your instrument
‘Percussion is the icing on the cake, the glitter on the top and, sometimes, the rumbles underneath.’

Best thing about it?
‘It’s varied and very exciting to play.’

Worst thing about it?
‘There’s not always much to do.’

How often do you practise?
‘Not as often as I’d like.’
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Why did you choose percussion?
‘It’s all in one’s personality. There’s a bit of me that’s a show-off and an extrovert – but only a bit.

’Do you wish you played another instrument?
‘Occasionally; I love to listen to the French horns, they’re very heroic.’

Where do you sit in the orchestra?
‘Right at the back. When everyone else is sorted, we get whatever space is left.’

What can you hear from where you sit?
‘Masses of French horn.’

How much are your instruments worth?
‘The orchestra’s collection of percussion is worth about £60,000.’

Most memorable moment
‘When I was still a student I did a concert with the London Phil. Klaus Tennstedt conducted and Jessye Norman sang scenes from “Salome”. The audience went wild; it was like a football match.’

What are your favourite pieces for percussion?
‘Mahler, Strauss and film music.’

Tell us a joke about percussionists
‘What did the percussionist get on his musicianship test? Dribble.’