Education

Rory is a dedicated, energetic and very hard-working educator with an optimistic and ambitious creative output. He is committed to instilling confidence within students of any ability, approaching each project with a very open-minded attitude.

Rory has years of experience in educating, having led improvisation workshops around the UK, as well as coaching youth jazz orchestras and large ensembles from primary school to university level. These include: Chetham’s School of Music, Bath Spa University, Wakefield Youth Jazz Orchestra, Clitheroe Royal Grammar School Big Band, Aberdeen University Jazz Ensemble, Dumfries/Galloway Youth Jazz Orchestra, Musica Kirklees Big Band, Cornwall Music Trust, Leicester DeMontfort University, Swansea University jazz ensemble and many more. Rory worked as an educational ambassador for NYJO (winner of parliamentary jazz education award), and has led workshops around the UK for NYJO since leaving the band. Rory was raised by well known jazz educator/saxophonist Richard Ingham, whom he observed the rehearsal and workshop techniques of from an early age, developing a real love for teaching. 

Rory is a passionate and committed composer/arranger, having recently been commissioned to write new works for youth big band which premiered at Ribble Valley Jazz Festival.  

services

Rory offers the following services both online and in-person, for beginner to advanced levels: 

  • Private trombone lessons (any style inc. Classical, Jazz, Pop and Funk)

  • Improvisation lessons on any instrument!

  • Masterclasses | Group workshops

  • Small and large ensemble directing

  • Big band coaching

NOrth LONDON JAZZ

Every Monday Night Rory runs a jazz workshop at Jacksons Lane in Highgate 7-8 and 8-9pm. Email northlondonjazz@gmail.com to sign up!

For more info click HERE !

Education Testimonials


That was BRILLIANT! Thank you so much! Some absolute gems of advice in all of that and brilliant music. Really can’t thank you enough.
— Head of Music, Chetham's School of Music

He was very welcoming and made me feel at ease, even in such a short space of time… I really enjoyed his input, and it definitely improved my next practice and then the performance!
— Pre-Conservatoire Consultation Lesson

Your insight is invaluable
— Professional trombonist

Fantastic Workshop!
— Head of Jazz, Leeds Conservatoire

Really enjoyed Rory’s class…I thought he made it really fun… keeping everyone involved…I really liked how he went with the flow for the class and it stayed very interesting”
— Student (Royal Northern College of Music)

I have thoroughly enjoyed 2 years of lessons with Rory. He has facilitated my development as a player in so many ways helping me improve my classical playing alongside teaching jazz improvisation with endless enthusiasm. His lessons are great fun and it’s amazing to be able to play with such an amazing and passionate musician
— Private Student

My son has been having lessons with Rory and he is an absolutely fantastic teacher. He is kind, patient and very encouraging. His enthusiasm is contagious and he always makes the lessons fun.  Patrick has learnt & developed so much under Rory’s guidance  - he is a truly inspirational teacher.
— Parent of a private student

Amazing!
— Student of Leeds Conservatoire

My lessons with Rory were truly fantastic! He is one of the most encouraging teachers out there, and made every lesson fun and relaxing. Rory can help conquer the biggest task with ease, yet you still have fun whilst learning. I would recommend him to any of my friends, as he is a delight and loves what he does.
— Private Student

fantastic workshop delivered with great enthusiasm and knowledge, the pupils could relate”
— Artistic Director, Wakefield Youth Jazz Orchestra

All the students thoroughly enjoyed themselves and benefitted greatly from the session which I have no hesitation in recommending to anyone who could take advantage of their friendly and approachable attitude to jazz workshops. Simply brilliant experience all round.
— Head of Music, Franklin College

Fantastic gig and great masterclass...our students will have got so much out of your visit
— Head of Music, Aberdeen University

For teaching enquiries, please contact Rory!