I first met Hans Koller when he came into the Royal Academy of Music to do a big band project with us (the students at the time). I immediately loved his music, the melodies and sounds he was finding in the big band setting, his approach and explanation of the music to us. I remember…

Last Saturday I went to meet the saxophonist/composer Barbara Thompson. I also got to meet her lovely husband Jon Hiseman (drummer, engineer, sometimes gardener). I had such a good time that I wanted to share it with all of you.

Chris has taken some time out from his busy touring schedule to talk to me about life and that… How do you like your eggs? (just for future reference when I’m ordering breakfast for everyone on tour because you’re all about to miss the deadline for food) Fertilised.

Gail is a founding member of the recorder ensemble Consortium 5. Having met her many years ago through mutual friends (and study) our paths seem to cross more and more frequently. She has also just set up a new company with some other innovative types who say this of themselves: “Soundcastle is a pioneering arts…

I first came across Barry Douglas through my husband who plays in his chamber orchestra, Camerata Ireland. Barry is one of the most incredible concert pianists out there with a biog that most of us could only dream of. He’s also a great socialite and banishes all the myths about soloists who can’t talk to…

I first heard Iain on a recording of Loose Tubes when I was a teenager and I think I was about 18 when I had my first lesson with him. I have quite a few memories of Iain playing – here are a couple I’d like to share: Django Bates was touring with his Quiet…