My Background, My Journey in Music: and Experience

Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My first steps were taken in Malta, where I began studying violin and piano. However, it was the saxophone that truly captured my spirit, opening the path to what would become a lifelong pursuit of sound, expression, and connection. At the age of 12, my family moved to Campbeltown, a remote but musically vibrant town in Scotland. Despite its size, Campbeltown had a strong musical culture that shaped my early development. I joined the school Wind Band as a saxophonist and the Campbeltown Brass Band as a percussionist. With these ensembles, I performed across the UK, including a memorable tour for the British Brass Band Championships where we proudly placed third. In 2002, I earned first prize in the Secondary Woodwind category at the Kintyre Music Festival and placed among the top 20 in the Argyll Music Festival. During my time in Campbeltown, I studied under the guidance of the late Gordon Evans, whose influence grounded my technical and expressive foundation.

A few years later, I moved to Glasgow, having been accepted into the Junior Academy at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (formerly RSAMD). Over three enriching years, I studied saxophone as my principal instrument, sat for ABRSM exams, and performed regularly with the Conservatoire Saxophone Ensemble, Wind Orchestra, and Variety Big Band. I also joined the Kirkintilloch Variety Orchestra, performing alongside seasoned professionals in styles ranging from jazz and swing to Latin and film music — including a Glen Miller tribute at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

My education continued at Douglas Academy, where I deepened my performance experience, and then at Perth College UHI, earning an HND in Music. There I studied under saxophonist Gordon McNeil, took part in masterclasses with international names like Kenny G, Courtney Pine, Bill Bruford, and Sting, and explored composition, music production, and pedagogy.

In 2009, I enrolled at the University of Sunderland, where I completed my B.Mus. (Hons) in Jazz, Popular and Commercial Music. Performance, composition, music technology, and jazz improvisation were central to my studies. A highlight was performing at the Newcastle International Jazz Festival alongside guitarist Chris Sharkey.

After twelve years abroad, I returned to Malta with the goal of giving back. Since 2012, I’ve taught music in state primary and secondary schools, and at the Malta School of Music, where I work as an instrumental teacher and adult educator. My teaching approach blends structured music theory and technique with inclusive, student-led exploration, drawing heavily on Kodály, Orff, Dalcroze, and Suzuki methodologies. My performing life continues alongside my teaching. I’ve appeared in cultural events, school concerts, and state celebrations — including a performance in front of President George Abela at the Three Palaces, and collaborations with the Malta Police Force Band for the 200th Anniversary celebration. I’ve also played with various band clubs and as a session saxophonist across the islands.

In 2016, I joined the Malta Citizens Orchestra — a national community ensemble supported by the Malta Arts Council. With them, I performed in major events during Malta’s EU Presidency and the 75th Anniversary of the George Cross. We also participated in Valletta 2018’s Mewga Mużika as part of the European Capital of Culture celebrations.

Today, my journey continues through classrooms, community spaces, and the stage — always with the same belief: that music can change lives, bring people together, and express what words cannot.

🌍 Places That Shaped Me

Malta & Gozo – Home base, teaching ground, performance stage
Scotland & UK – Foundation, education, artistic development
Ireland – Occasional tours, community connections