Paul began his musical career as a Junior Exhibitioner at the Royal College of Music, studying trumpet with Colin Cleague (English National Opera). At Trinity College of Music Paul studied the trumpet with Iaan Wilson (BBC Symphony Orchestra), John Wilbraham (BBC Symphony Orchestra) and composition with Dr. Brian Blackwood. At Trinity College he was awarded the I’ll Sono di Ottone Prize for Performance twice in successive years and the Student Union Chamber Prize. Following on from music college he performed and recorded regularly with many orchestras, including the London Festival Orchestra and the BBC Symphony Orchestra.
In 2008 in recognition of outstanding services to music education, Paul was awarded an Honorary Associate of The Royal Academy of Music London.
In 1986 he was appointed Head of Brass, Percussion and Jazz and Commercial Music at Wells Cathedral Specialist Music School continuing to lead both Brass and Rock & Pop, two highly successful and inspirational departments within the specialist music school. From 2017-2020 Paul held the post of Head of Music Performance at Wells Cathedral School. During Paul’s time at Wells he also held the post of principal conductor of the Schools Philharmonic Orchestra and also rehearsed the Wells Cathedral School Symphony Orchestra in preparation for the conductor in residence Christopher Adey and other international conductors.
He has coached trumpet and brass for all of the UK’s major youth ensembles including NCO, NYWO NYWE and county orchestras and bands. He is a published composer and arranger and has his own company Pandon Ltd which also promotes young writers, composers and authors. Paul is the presenter and inspiration behind the popular Young Musicians Matter podcast.
Paul is currently a busy freelance trumpet player across all genres including being one of the two resident trumpet players in the highly acclaimed band DT8. He is the principal conductor of The Somerset County Youth Concert Band and enjoys weekly visits to Glastonbury Care Home working with the residents in musical activities. Paul joined Wells City Band in Autumn 2021 and was appointed Musical and Artistic Director.
wellscityband.org 