I have been involved in a range of projects and activities throughout my career. Here are details of some of them.

I was one of the original working party setup to write the Associated Board's jazz piano syllabus. Since then I've presented seminars on jazz improvisation for the AB in Asia (twice), written pieces for Grades 1-5 and recently 6-8, provided sample prep tests, written ear tests and quick studies as well as delivered seminars for Professional Development throughout the country.

Subject to completing the training, I will be working on the CT ABRSM Course as a mentor.

Apart from this website, I have written a beginner’s guide to jazz improvisation on another website which will be live within a few months. Recorded with ex-Fife Youth Jazz professionals, this site will allow you to play along with the band and then practise solo improvisation with the given notation. What’s different about this approach is that the player will also improve ensemble skills by playing harmony and solo lines along with the band.

I have always been drawn to the tunes which attracted the literary talents of Robert Burns and have recently recorded my interpretations of some of the best known, for a solo CD entitled 'The De'il’s Awa' Wi' The Jazzman'. 

Recorded on the Bösendorfer in the Younger Hall, St Andrews, I somehow include stride, bebop and odd time signatures in the course of a fresh look at these wonderful tunes. Check out a few samples on the site.

The CD is now available for £11 including p&p, although an official launch is still in the future. Please email your address and I'll be delighted to send you a copy! 

And of course weekly FYJO rehearsals continue every Thursday night in Cowdenbeath, with the annual Fife Summer Jazz Course in July 2009.

I have various dates coming up working with classroom and peri teachers through out the UK, where I try to draw on the experiences I gained as a full-time music teacher in Beath High School, Cowdenbeath.

I’m busy transcribing and researching the best jazz solos for my fortnightly spot on Radio Scotland. Since I started on the show three years ago, I have 'jargonbusted' some 75 jazz solos and terms.

I’m looking forward to working with singer Tina May in a series of concerts and school workshops in October. Details are on the Wigmore Hall website, along with information about the CD-ROM I produced with the help of my late brother, Will, two years ago called 'Jazz Notes'.

Having led four one-day Yamaha Jazz Experience teacher sessions with Julian Joseph, Tim Garland and Bill Martin, I can’t wait to see how the teachers respond, as they train up their pupils to take part in the jazz competition which I will be involved with at the Cheltenham Jazz Festival next May.

In my work with the Scottish Arts' Youth Music Initiative programme, I’m touring round schools in my native Aberdeenshire throughout May and June relishing hearing children speak in my native Doric scent. (Not to be confused with the Dorian mode!)