I was born in North Belfast within the sound of many different bands. I began my musical journey as chorister in St Anne's Cathedral choir. When my voice broke I joined Belfast Military Band as clarinetist but always wanted to play trombone - some say I still cannot! After some years a vacancy became available on bass trombone, I changed instruments and was given a sheet of music with slide positions, from which I learnt the trombone. The "troubles" claimed many bands and Belfast Military succumbed and I moved to Oldpark Silver before eventually moving to 3rd Carrick 20 years ago. In a recent move within the band I now play 3rd percussion.