I was born in England and raised on a healthy diet of my father’s record collection. Music has always been a big part of my life. I started playing Harmonica when I was 12 yrs old. In 1998, at the age of 17, I won the British National Harmonica League title for Blues/Rock Harmonica. At that point I had already been playing in bands and duos for a couple of years. From there I have gone on to play music professionally with numerous acts during my time living in England, Holland and now America. I’ve been playing in Austin since January 2005 with the band  porterdavis. In addition to playing locally around Austin and Texas, we tour nationally on the club and college circuit.

I was lucky enough to have a great teacher right from day one.  I was able to avoid the pit falls and bad habits self taught players can often pick up. It’s having that start on the instrument which makes me believe there’s no substitute for a real teacher. My aim as a teacher is to work with my students so they can achieve their own individual goals as harmonica players. From working musicians playing in bands, to individuals who simply want to entertain themselves, I have a relaxed and effective approach to teaching that yields results.  Teaching and defining techniques, developing improvisational skills, different styles of playing and confidence are just a few of the things that will help players grow into adaptable and tasteful musicians. Music has given me so many opportunities and pleasures in life. Teaching at Red Leaf allows me to share them.