Born in Oxford in 1979, Dave learned piano from a young age, and euphonium and trombone with his local brass band. He developed an interest in composition and arrangement in his teens and has maintained these interests in parallel with a professional career in physics. His works for brass quintet have been played around the world, and his compositions for solo trombone have seen regular performances in recital series. He lives in Oxford, where he helps manage Kidlington Concert Brass, plays also for various other ensembles in the Oxford and London areas, and accompanies on piano.