What was your route into harpsichord playing?

The woodwork department at my (state) school built a very early harpsichord kit which gave me the opportunity to dabble with the instrument, and to explore Renaissance repertoire. I started to play continuo, and spent far too much of my upper 6th restoring the instrument! At University I became increasingly drawn to Baroque keyboard repertoire, and found that playing continuo gave me far more opportunities to play chamber music than as either a pianist or oboist. It was thus a natural progression to pursue post-grad harpsichord study, and then one thing led to another...

What are you particularly looking forward to in the solo harpsichord recital - The Nightingale in Love?

Showing the harpsichord’s expressive possibilities and the strikingly different music of three great composers: the intimacy of Couperin’s character pieces, here focussed on birds and love; the seductive melodies and infectious rhythms of Scarlatti; and the way in which Bach not only pays homage to the contrasting French and Italian styles, but totally makes them uniquely his own.

What is your most memorable moment with the ensemble so far?

There are so many, but overall exploring great repertory with fabulous musicians and friends. Standouts from last couple of seasons are the St. Matthew Passion, coming up again on Good Friday this year, and the B minor Mass collaboration with Robert Hollingworth and The 24, I am looking forward to our next collaboration after Easter, touring the Handel Coronation Anthems.

What do you enjoy doing outside of music making?

Being in the open air is invigorating. The past year has seen me get into ParkRun - it gets me alert on a concert day! Away from Manchester, I love exploring the fabulous Yorkshire hills and dales with my wife, dog and camera.