Originally from Canada, Phillip began his musical studies as a classical saxophonist. By the age of 18, he was a recipient of numerous Canadian competitions and awards including the Toronto Woodwind Prize, Guelph Spring Festival and University Concerto Competition in his 1st year of study. An interest in the orchestral repertoire led Phillip to change his studies to Clarinet, graduating from Wilfrid Laurier University with an Honours Bachelor of Music Degree in Orchestral Performance. Professional engagements followed as both soloist and freelance musician including performances and radio broadcasts with the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony Orchestra and Canadian Chamber Ensemble.

An orchestral conducting apprenticeship followed under the guidance of Victor Sawa, working with two area youth orchestras including invitations to the Banff Youth Orchestra course and the Pan-American Music Festival, representing Canada. Conducting studies included two consecutive summer courses at the Pierre Monteux School for Advanced Conductors under the tutelage of Maestro Charles Bruck in Maine, USA.

Phillip now lives in Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire with his British wife, Julie and their two children, Kyle and Kiera. Phillip works for Hertfordshire Music Service in the role of Instrumental Leader for Woodwind, teaching instrumental lessons, while coaching and conducting local Music Centre and County level ensembles. Phillip has published two books and enjoys giving talks and workshops based on his interest in effective learning methods.

Earlier interests from Canada for both conducting and saxophone solo performances have been re-established having recently taken on conducting studies with Tim Reynish and Michael Rose and performing as a saxophone soloist, including two recitals at Benslow, Hitchin.

“I look forward to my time with the Stevenage Symphony Orchestra, building on their established enthusiasm and performance standard through effective rehearsals and concert programming, while building on the number of musicians, community audience and corporate interest for this Orchestra.”