Returning to England - he founded Forest Music School in South-West Essex and concentrated on teaching and ensemble playing. Between 2001-5 he was Director of the Harlow Piano Festival and formed Quadmanus to promote and perform works for piano duet and two pianos. He has broadcast on BBC local radio and has performed widely around the UK and in The Netherlands. In Amsterdam, Gary became very interested in early pianos and their link to the great Classical and Romantic composers. In developing his teaching he discovered Finchcocks Musical Museum of early keyboard instruments. Since 2004, he has become closely involved with Finchcocks - demonstrating, performing and workshop teaching as part of their educational team directed by Steven Devine and the museum's founder Richard Burnett (MBE). In 2010 Gary was appointed Educational Co-ordinator. Through his interest in early keyboard instruments, Gary has become involved with the John Kerr Award for English Song; founded by Maureen Lyle in 2005-6 it has since become established as a major song competition in the UK. He was delighted in 2009 to be invited to become a Trustee and the official accompanist for the 2010 competition. At present, the award is held bi-annually at Finchcocks in Kent. In 2010, Gary performed a solo recital at Steinway Hall, London, and has performed with tenor Greg Tassell in a show Crystal Clear written and directed by Leon Conrad. Future engagements include recitals with both Greg Tassell (tenor), Abigail Sudbury (soprano) and Steven Devine - international harpsichordist and director. In 2012 Gary and Greg will be recording a CD of English Song at Finchcocks. During 2010 Gary re-located to South-East Wales. Forest Music School will be expanded with Nicky Creighton leading the Essex teaching and Valerie Humphreys joining him in South-East Wales as a specialist teacher for young beginners. Gary will be available to teach advanced or talented students at either location.
|