Phil grew up in Yorkshire Brass Bands (Swinton and District Excelsior Silver and Kirkbymoorside bands) before entering the Royal Northern College of Music in 1974. He became a founder member of Opera North in 1978, before moving to the Halle Orchestra in Manchester. From there he freelanced with most of the major orchestras in the UK. In 1996 Phil was appointed section leader of the trombones in the CBSO under Simon Rattle. A position he held for 10 years. During that time, Phil taught at the Birmingham Conservatoire and briefly at Cheethams.
After such a busy playing and teaching career, Phil eventually found the time to write music, which is what he has wanted to do for many years, without really having proper opportunity to do so before.
Phil writes mainly for brass, in the field of education, as well as the concert hall, where he feels there is still room for enjoyable and tuneful music.
Phil is currently working as a performer and brass teacher in Birmingham, as well as being involved in charitable and community activities associated with his church.
Phil enjoys gardening, history and nature conservation, amongst many other interests.
