We invite musicians from near and far to share their musical talent with us. All are welcome! 

This Wednesday we look forward to welcoming Andy Harris and Fergus Black.

They will be taking us on a ‘Trumpet Journey’ round Europe, from Padre Martini in 18th century Bologna, via the Steppes, to Orkney and Spain. Andy plays a variety of different trumpets, so it is a technical and historical journey as well.

Andy Harris – Trumpet

After completing my BMus (Hons) at the Birmingham Conservatoire in 2002, I was fortunate to find work as a freelance trumpeter.

In addition to playing in many shows, weddings and social functions, I joined a band called “Johnny 2 Bad” which went on to be very successful as a UB40 tribute band. Whilst a member of the band for around 15 years, we toured extensively around Europe playing in excess of 100 shows a year. We played in many big festivals and recorded a number of albums, both of covers and original material.

During this time, I was asked to participate in many different projects and concerts, including playing for Aswad in a number of very large festivals, recording for Shane Ward, and Same Difference from X Factor.

I have never lost my love for classical music and solo recitals. After retiring from life as a touring musician, I gained a position with Sheffield Music Hub as a Music Leader. I have recently joined Unite The Union brass band as their Soprano cornet player and this has really reinforced my love and passion for playing. 

I am currently studying for an MA in music performance at Sheffield University which I am enjoying immensely, and it’s great to be out playing recitals again with my good friend Fergus.

Fergus Black – Piano

Fergus Black was born in Scotland. After taking his degree at St. Andrews University, he studied music in the USA at the University of Pennsylvania and at UCLA, before returning to the UK. He works as a freelance musician: performing and teaching – both privately and in schools. He gives occasional piano recitals, and is often found as a duet partner for chamber music recitals with singers and instrumentalists. Recent recitals have been with violinist, violist, trumpeter and flautist. 

He lives in Peterborough with his wife, Helen, and his website is at www.fergusblackmusic.uk