My Musical Journey
My musical journey began in 1986, at the age of 30, when I picked up a guitar for the first time. Learning my first three chords opened a door that led me to write my first Christmas song, Santa’s On His Way.
Throughout the 1990s, I expanded my musical skills by learning to play the keyboard and pursuing formal education. I earned a BTEC qualification in Music Technology and achieved Grade 5 in Music Theory. In 1996, I continued my studies at Leeds College of Music, focusing on classical guitar and clarinet.
Although a long-distance trucking career and a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis presented significant challenges to my musical development, my passion for songwriting never disappeared.
After retiring in 2022, I returned to music production with renewed focus. The learning curve involved in mastering modern music software was steep, but discovering AI technology in October 2025 transformed my creative process.
Today, I am proud to share the music of Santa’s Elfharmonic Chamber Orchestra, bringing to life the Christmas songs I first dreamed of when my children were young.
Supporting Action for Children
I have chosen to support Action for Children by donating 25% of my net proceeds, after taxes and expenses, to the charity.
I first became aware of Action for Children during the run-up to Christmas 2025. As a member of Rock Choir, I took part in fundraising for the charity during our winter term.
After visiting the Action for Children website, I discovered its Secret Santa campaign, which collected toys and donations to help ensure that children had a present to open on Christmas morning. The campaign deeply resonated with me and inspired me to offer my support.
Action for Children provides practical and emotional support to children and families through a wide range of services. These include family support, childcare, mental health and wellbeing programmes, and specialist help delivered within local communities and online.
Alongside its frontline services, Action for Children works with policymakers and decision-makers to champion the needs of children and young people. This helps ensure their voices are heard and contributes to shaping policies that protect and support them, both now and in the future.
Songwriter & Author