Dark Peak Music
Annual Gala Concert at the Octagon
Friday 26 April 2024 | Our annual Gala concert at the Octagon in Buxton is one of the main events of the Dark Peak calendar.
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The Dark Peak Music Foundation is a vibrant, creative and innovative music centre based in the Peak District in Derbyshire.
We are committed to providing the best opportunities for young people from Glossop, New Mills, Chapel-en-le- Frith, Hayfield and the surrounding area to develop their interest in music and the lasting friendships that grow out of making music together.
Our ethos is simple – everyone can develop themselves, their community and the wider society through music.
We aim to foster the musical development of each individual student, nurturing their confidence, helping them to develop their musical and teamwork skills and giving them the opportunity to work with other keen and committed musicians.
Under the guidance of our team of experienced and dedicated professional musicians, the Foundation provides opportunities for over 200 young musicians from beginner to advanced levels in a progressive family of ensembles.
Coupled with our exciting programme of community events, workshops, public concerts and our community orchestra for players of all ages we are making our corner of Derbyshire an exciting musical environment for the whole community.
We are a registered charity and a delivery partner of the Derbyshire Music Education Hub.
About us
Jeff Snowdon
Principal Musical Director
In a career spanning over 40 years in the music profession Jeff Snowdon started out as a professional hornplayer working with many of the country’s leading symphony and chamber orchestras including the BBC Philharmonic, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Hallé Orchestra and many others. He was a member of the orchestra of Northern Ballet Theatre and Sinfonia Viva and played in West End productions including Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar, My Fair Lady and Sondheim’s “Pacific Overtures”.
In 2000 Jeff founded the Dark Peak Concert Band, and later in 2004 the Dark Peak Youth Orchestra, under the management of the Dark Peak Music Foundation.
He furthered his conducting studies under the late George Hurst, as well as short courses with Timothy Reynish, Peter Stark and Denise Ham.
Currently Head of Brass and Director of the Wind Orchestra at the Royal Birmingham Junior Conservatoire, Jeff is much in demand as a teacher of horn and as a general brass playing clinician. He has worked extensively coaching youth orchestra sections including the National Children’s Orchestra, Derbyshire, Essex, Nottingham and Yorkshire Youth Orchestras.
In addition to his education work Jeff founded the Glossop Concert Society in 1991. During his time as Artistic Director he organised well over 100 professional concerts in the Peak District before handing over the baton of the organisation, which has grown into a nationally recognised chamber music festival.
Jeff is proud to be part of the brilliant directing team and to work with the fantastic trustees and students of Dark Peak Music in what has become the most rewarding and enjoyable project of his varied career.
In a career spanning over 40 years in the music profession Jeff Snowdon started out as a professional hornplayer working with many of the country’s leading symphony and chamber orchestras including the BBC Philharmonic, the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Hallé Orchestra and many others. He was a member of the orchestra of Northern Ballet Theatre and Sinfonia Viva and played in West End productions including Evita, Jesus Christ Superstar, My Fair Lady and Sondheim’s “Pacific Overtures”.
In 2000 Jeff founded the Dark Peak Concert Band, and later in 2004 the Dark Peak Youth Orchestra, under the management of the Dark Peak Music Foundation.
He furthered his conducting studies under the late George Hurst, as well as short courses with Timothy Reynish, Peter Stark and Denise Ham.
Currently Head of Brass and Director of the Wind Orchestra at the Royal Birmingham Junior Conservatoire, Jeff is much in demand as a teacher of horn and as a general brass playing clinician. He has worked extensively coaching youth orchestra sections including the National Children’s Orchestra, Derbyshire, Essex, Nottingham and Yorkshire Youth Orchestras.
In addition to his education work Jeff founded the Glossop Concert Society in 1991. During his time as Artistic Director he organised well over 100 professional concerts in the Peak District before handing over the baton of the organisation, which has grown into a nationally recognised chamber music festival.
Jeff is proud to be part of the brilliant directing team and to work with the fantastic trustees and students of Dark Peak Music in what has become the most rewarding and enjoyable project of his varied career.
Emma Dixon
Director of Strings and Early-years Music Education
Emma Dixon gained her undergraduate and Master’s degrees in cello performance from the Royal Northern College of Music and has performed throughout the UK as a chamber and orchestral musician on modern and baroque cello.
Emma holds professional qualifications in both Dalcroze and Kodaly music education methods and is currently a candidate on the International Dalcroze Licence. She works across the UK as a musicianship tutor and workshop leader with young musicians, music professionals and teachers for organisations including Dark Peak Music Foundation, Chetham’s School of Music, Manchester Camerata, Derbyshire Music Education Hub, the Chetham’s International Piano Summer School, Dalcroze UK and is looking forward to working with the National Youth String Orchestra in 2024.
Emma is passionate about removing barriers to quality musical experiences and music education, working with pupils in local schools and building partnerships throughout the Glossopdale community to broaden access to instrumental lessons and the Dark Peak Music Foundation ensembles. As Director of Strings and Early Music Education for DPMF, Emma has grown and developed three thriving ensembles for young strings players and established the Dark Peak Young Voices Choir and Supertonics musicianship classes to give even more children access to outstanding musical opportunities and quality music education.
Emma is proud to be Education and Outreach Manager for Carrot Productions and The Carrot Trust, developing access to exceptional live music experiences for all, with a focus on removing access barriers for children, young people and adults with special needs and designing holistic, interactive live music performance programmes.
Emma is an artistic director of the Glossop Music Festival, bringing professional music performances into the Glossop community. She has developed and delivered a regular summer music programme for local primary schools with the Festival which reaches 500 pupils each year.
Emma is a skilled and sought-after cello teacher, working with young cellists from the very beginnings through to advanced level in local schools and privately. She has taught cello and coached string chamber music in many varied settings over the years including the RNCM Junior Department and Young Strings Project, Yorkshire Young Musicians and Pro Corda, for Music Education Hubs and in mainstream and private schools. She is the cello section coach for the Derbyshire County youth ensembles and works with Derbyshire Music Education Hub leadership to support the CPD of instrumental teachers throughout the county.
Emma lives in Glossop with her husband and three children. She is delighted to work with Dark Peak Music Foundation.
Emma Dixon gained her undergraduate and Master’s degrees in cello performance from the Royal Northern College of Music and has performed throughout the UK as a chamber and orchestral musician on modern and baroque cello.
Emma holds professional qualifications in both Dalcroze and Kodaly music education methods and is currently a candidate on the International Dalcroze Licence. She works across the UK as a musicianship tutor and workshop leader with young musicians, music professionals and teachers for organisations including Dark Peak Music Foundation, Chetham’s School of Music, Manchester Camerata, Derbyshire Music Education Hub, the Chetham’s International Piano Summer School, Dalcroze UK and is looking forward to working with the National Youth String Orchestra in 2024.
Emma is passionate about removing barriers to quality musical experiences and music education, working with pupils in local schools and building partnerships throughout the Glossopdale community to broaden access to instrumental lessons and the Dark Peak Music Foundation ensembles. As Director of Strings and Early Music Education for DPMF, Emma has grown and developed three thriving ensembles for young strings players and established the Dark Peak Young Voices Choir and Supertonics musicianship classes to give even more children access to outstanding musical opportunities and quality music education.
Emma is proud to be Education and Outreach Manager for Carrot Productions and The Carrot Trust, developing access to exceptional live music experiences for all, with a focus on removing access barriers for children, young people and adults with special needs and designing holistic, interactive live music performance programmes.
Emma is an artistic director of the Glossop Music Festival, bringing professional music performances into the Glossop community. She has developed and delivered a regular summer music programme for local primary schools with the Festival which reaches 500 pupils each year.
Emma is a skilled and sought-after cello teacher, working with young cellists from the very beginnings through to advanced level in local schools and privately. She has taught cello and coached string chamber music in many varied settings over the years including the RNCM Junior Department and Young Strings Project, Yorkshire Young Musicians and Pro Corda, for Music Education Hubs and in mainstream and private schools. She is the cello section coach for the Derbyshire County youth ensembles and works with Derbyshire Music Education Hub leadership to support the CPD of instrumental teachers throughout the county.
Emma lives in Glossop with her husband and three children. She is delighted to work with Dark Peak Music Foundation.
Sarah Hind
Ensemble Director - Intermediate Wind Band
Sarah studied music at the University of Hudderfield and graduated with a first class honours degree in 2013. During her time at Huddersfield she studied classical saxophone with Sarah Markham.
Sarah is the baritone player in Quirk Saxophone Quartet. Quirk is an exciting an innovative group – commissioning new works and playing a wide range of repertoire, Sarah also enjoys regular performances with the Regent Big Band and various singing projects.
Sarah is passionate about music education, recently becoming the Lead Woodwind Tutor with Tameside Music Service. Sarah has had a long connection with DPMF. In 2001 she was a member of the first incarnation of the wind band (affectionately known as “The Band From Hell”!) and in a twist of fate she was recently appointed Director of the Intermediate Wind Band.
Sarah studied music at the University of Hudderfield and graduated with a first class honours degree in 2013. During her time at Huddersfield she studied classical saxophone with Sarah Markham.
Sarah is the baritone player in Quirk Saxophone Quartet. Quirk is an exciting an innovative group – commissioning new works and playing a wide range of repertoire, Sarah also enjoys regular performances with the Regent Big Band and various singing projects.
Sarah is passionate about music education, recently becoming the Lead Woodwind Tutor with Tameside Music Service. Sarah has had a long connection with DPMF. In 2001 she was a member of the first incarnation of the wind band (affectionately known as “The Band From Hell”!) and in a twist of fate she was recently appointed Director of the Intermediate Wind Band.
Rosie Crook
Director of Woodwind
Rosie Crook is a freelance oboist and woodwind teacher living in Chinley.
Rosie has worked with many professional orchestras including the Halle, Manchester Camerata, National Ballet and Orchestra Da Camera since graduating from Huddersfield Polytechnic and the RNCM. She enjoys performing in smaller chamber ensembles, especially with the Marsyas Wind Quintet alongside other professional musicians from the High Peak, including Rachel Whibley.
Rosie is extensively involved in Music Education, teaching in individual and group lessons in Local schools, delivering the wider opportunities whole class instrumental programme and as a consultant for the Quality and Assurance of teaching and learning for Derbyshire Music Partnership Education Hub.
She joined DPMF in September 2016 to become the ensemble director for Chinley Junior Wind band.
Rosie Crook is a freelance oboist and woodwind teacher living in Chinley.
Rosie has worked with many professional orchestras including the Halle, Manchester Camerata, National Ballet and Orchestra Da Camera since graduating from Huddersfield Polytechnic and the RNCM. She enjoys performing in smaller chamber ensembles, especially with the Marsyas Wind Quintet alongside other professional musicians from the High Peak, including Rachel Whibley.
Rosie is extensively involved in Music Education, teaching in individual and group lessons in Local schools, delivering the wider opportunities whole class instrumental programme and as a consultant for the Quality and Assurance of teaching and learning for Derbyshire Music Partnership Education Hub.
She joined DPMF in September 2016 to become the ensemble director for Chinley Junior Wind band.
Kirsty Hetherington
Ensemble Director - Chinley Junior Wind Band
Kirsty is a graduate of Leeds University where she gained a Bmus degree in music majoring in flute performance. She also spent a year studying flute at the Franz Liszt Musik Hochschule in Weimar, Germany.
After graduating, Kirsty spent five years working as a flautist in numerous hotels in Dubai, including the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the Burj al Arab, and was privileged to perform for celebrities such as Bill Clinton and Sir Alex Ferguson and at many UAE royal weddings.
After a period of four years working in London, Kirsty moved to the Peak District where she now has a varied career teaching and performing. She recently had a midlife crisis and joined the army reserves as a musician; a steep learning curve, but a challenge she is thoroughly enjoying.
Kirsty is a graduate of Leeds University where she gained a Bmus degree in music majoring in flute performance. She also spent a year studying flute at the Franz Liszt Musik Hochschule in Weimar, Germany.
After graduating, Kirsty spent five years working as a flautist in numerous hotels in Dubai, including the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the Burj al Arab, and was privileged to perform for celebrities such as Bill Clinton and Sir Alex Ferguson and at many UAE royal weddings.
After a period of four years working in London, Kirsty moved to the Peak District where she now has a varied career teaching and performing. She recently had a midlife crisis and joined the army reserves as a musician; a steep learning curve, but a challenge she is thoroughly enjoying.
Simon Lodge
Director of Brass
Simon studied trombone performance at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester and graduated with a first class honours degree in 2010.
Since then he has enjoyed an exciting and varied career as a freelance trombonist, conductor and educator all over the North West.
As a member of the award-winning Beats & Pieces Big Band; he has recorded four studio albums and performed at some of the most prestigious venues both in the UK and Europe.
A passionate teacher, Simon aspires to give back what he’s received: a lifetime full of fantastic musical experiences with a community of inspiring musicians.
Simon studied trombone performance at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester and graduated with a first class honours degree in 2010.
Since then he has enjoyed an exciting and varied career as a freelance trombonist, conductor and educator all over the North West.
As a member of the award-winning Beats & Pieces Big Band; he has recorded four studio albums and performed at some of the most prestigious venues both in the UK and Europe.
A passionate teacher, Simon aspires to give back what he’s received: a lifetime full of fantastic musical experiences with a community of inspiring musicians.
Maria Snowdon
Director of Woodwind
Based in Glossop, Maria enjoys a busy and varied career combining professional orchestral, chamber and solo playing with teaching and coaching young musicians.
Born in Merthyr Tydfil, she started the flute at the age of nine, studying with John Turner in her early teens. Subsequently she was awarded a scholarship to the Royal Northern College of Music to study under Kate Hill and Trevor Wye. As a professional flautist, Maria has played with the Hallé, BBC Philharmonic, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Manchester Camerata and Northern Chamber Orchestra. In 1985 she was a finalist in the “National Flute Association of America” competition which was held in Denver, Colorado. From 1987-91 she was principal flute with the East of England Orchestra (now Sinfonia Viva).
She very much enjoys playing chamber music in a wide range of ensembles, and has performed as soloist in concertos including Mozart D Major, Bach B Minor Suite and Brandenburg 5, CPE Bach D Minor, Vivaldi “La Notte” and the William Alwyn Concerto. She has made two solo CDs, accompanied by her brother, Francis Rayner.
Much in demand as a teacher, Maria really enjoys inspiring a love of music in the next generation, and in recent years has devoted much energy to developing opportunities for young musicians in the Peak District.
Based in Glossop, Maria enjoys a busy and varied career combining professional orchestral, chamber and solo playing with teaching and coaching young musicians.
Born in Merthyr Tydfil, she started the flute at the age of nine, studying with John Turner in her early teens. Subsequently she was awarded a scholarship to the Royal Northern College of Music to study under Kate Hill and Trevor Wye. As a professional flautist, Maria has played with the Hallé, BBC Philharmonic, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Manchester Camerata and Northern Chamber Orchestra. In 1985 she was a finalist in the “National Flute Association of America” competition which was held in Denver, Colorado. From 1987-91 she was principal flute with the East of England Orchestra (now Sinfonia Viva).
She very much enjoys playing chamber music in a wide range of ensembles, and has performed as soloist in concertos including Mozart D Major, Bach B Minor Suite and Brandenburg 5, CPE Bach D Minor, Vivaldi “La Notte” and the William Alwyn Concerto. She has made two solo CDs, accompanied by her brother, Francis Rayner.
Much in demand as a teacher, Maria really enjoys inspiring a love of music in the next generation, and in recent years has devoted much energy to developing opportunities for young musicians in the Peak District.
Helen Parkes
Ensemble Director - Junior Strings
Helen read music at the University of Manchester. After graduating she went on to study on the Junior Strings course at the Royal Northern College of Music and Manchester Metropolitan University, completing a PGCE as well as studying the education methods of Dalcrose and Kodaly. Helen then spent a year at the Royal Academy of Music in London to complete a PGDip in performance.
Since then Helen has been combining teaching with a career as a freelance violist, playing regularly with a number of different quartets and orchestras in the North West.
Now settled in Whaley Bridge, Helen enjoys teaching violin and viola to young people of all ages and abilities in schools across the High Peak, as well as setting up the popular Little Bird Music baby and toddler classes. Helen is delighted to be involved with the DPMF Junior Strings Ensemble.
Helen read music at the University of Manchester. After graduating she went on to study on the Junior Strings course at the Royal Northern College of Music and Manchester Metropolitan University, completing a PGCE as well as studying the education methods of Dalcrose and Kodaly. Helen then spent a year at the Royal Academy of Music in London to complete a PGDip in performance.
Since then Helen has been combining teaching with a career as a freelance violist, playing regularly with a number of different quartets and orchestras in the North West.
Now settled in Whaley Bridge, Helen enjoys teaching violin and viola to young people of all ages and abilities in schools across the High Peak, as well as setting up the popular Little Bird Music baby and toddler classes. Helen is delighted to be involved with the DPMF Junior Strings Ensemble.
India Merrett
Ensemble Director - Junior Strings
India Shan Merrett is delighted to teach Violin & Viola for Dark Peak music since she joined the team in 2021.
She is fortunate to work alongside Helen Parkes assisting with Junior Strings and regularly supports the other string ensembles and orchestra. She is also very happy to work alongside Emma Dixon to deliver Wider Opportunities workshops to potential young string players.
India studied violin at Chetham's School of Music, Leeds College (BMus) and RNCM (PGDip)
India arrived at Dark Peak Music having completed a decade working in Pastoral Care at Chet's, as the Head of Girls' House.
India enjoys a rich and varied playing career. She is often found performing with her folk ensemble Ólta, as locally as Glossop and as far away as The Hebrides and Oslo. She has spent the last year and a half balancing teaching alongside working with contemporary dance theatre group The Rhiannon Faith Company, exploring themes musically alongside dancers and performers, and creating the show 'Lay Down Your Burdens' which culminated in its recent premier at The Barbican.
India Shan Merrett is delighted to teach Violin & Viola for Dark Peak music since she joined the team in 2021.
She is fortunate to work alongside Helen Parkes assisting with Junior Strings and regularly supports the other string ensembles and orchestra. She is also very happy to work alongside Emma Dixon to deliver Wider Opportunities workshops to potential young string players.
India studied violin at Chetham's School of Music, Leeds College (BMus) and RNCM (PGDip)
India arrived at Dark Peak Music having completed a decade working in Pastoral Care at Chet's, as the Head of Girls' House.
India enjoys a rich and varied playing career. She is often found performing with her folk ensemble Ólta, as locally as Glossop and as far away as The Hebrides and Oslo. She has spent the last year and a half balancing teaching alongside working with contemporary dance theatre group The Rhiannon Faith Company, exploring themes musically alongside dancers and performers, and creating the show 'Lay Down Your Burdens' which culminated in its recent premier at The Barbican.
Carl Raven
Director of Jazz Studies
Carl has performed with BBC Philharmonic, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Halle, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Ensemble 10:10, Manchester Camerata, Opera North, Northern Sinfonia, the Michael Nyman band and is a member of the acclaimed Apollo Saxophone Quartet. He is also a member of ‘House of Bedlam’. He currently records with the Odradek label and appears regularly on BBC radio 3
Carl currently is a saxophone and improvisation tutor at the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester and at and Manchester University.
Carl has performed with BBC Philharmonic, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Halle, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Ensemble 10:10, Manchester Camerata, Opera North, Northern Sinfonia, the Michael Nyman band and is a member of the acclaimed Apollo Saxophone Quartet. He is also a member of ‘House of Bedlam’. He currently records with the Odradek label and appears regularly on BBC radio 3
Carl currently is a saxophone and improvisation tutor at the Royal Northern College of Music, Manchester and at and Manchester University.
Claire Surman
Choir Director
Claire Surman studied postgraduate singing at the Royal College of Music in London, graduating with distinction and wining numerous competitions, before embarking on a career as a professional opera singer. She has performed in the UK and worldwide, singing roles with companies including Welsh National Opera and Glyndebourne, as a soloist with orchestras including the Berlin Philharmonic, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and the London Philharmonic Orchestra, in concert halls such as Wigmore Hall, Royal Festival Hall, Symphony Hall and the Bridgewater Hall.
In addition to her own performing, Claire is passionate about music education and performance psychology. She has a first class degree in music and psychology as well as being a qualified teacher, and combines all of these interests and skills in her freelance work. She thrives on helping to build and support young people to become happy, confident, resourceful individuals who, in turn, are able to fulfil their potential.
Since moving to Glossop in 2009, Claire has established a thriving private singing teaching practice offering one-to-one lessons to children and adults. Claire is delighted to now be working with the wonderful young musicians in the Dark Peak Young Voices choir.
Claire Surman studied postgraduate singing at the Royal College of Music in London, graduating with distinction and wining numerous competitions, before embarking on a career as a professional opera singer. She has performed in the UK and worldwide, singing roles with companies including Welsh National Opera and Glyndebourne, as a soloist with orchestras including the Berlin Philharmonic, Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and the London Philharmonic Orchestra, in concert halls such as Wigmore Hall, Royal Festival Hall, Symphony Hall and the Bridgewater Hall.
In addition to her own performing, Claire is passionate about music education and performance psychology. She has a first class degree in music and psychology as well as being a qualified teacher, and combines all of these interests and skills in her freelance work. She thrives on helping to build and support young people to become happy, confident, resourceful individuals who, in turn, are able to fulfil their potential.
Since moving to Glossop in 2009, Claire has established a thriving private singing teaching practice offering one-to-one lessons to children and adults. Claire is delighted to now be working with the wonderful young musicians in the Dark Peak Young Voices choir.
Rachel Steadman
Choir Accompanist
Rachel Steadman is a professional piano/keyboard musician and particularly enjoys accompanying choirs and improvising. Originally a classroom Music teacher, she left that to focus on performing rather than just talking about it! Rachel can be found in all manner of care venues for Music in Hospitals across the country, theatrical shows, working with child and adult choirs and is a regular accompanist for the Hallé.
Rachel has composed music for BBC Radio 4 documentaries and is keenly staying ‘current’ in her music technology abilities.
Rachel Steadman is a professional piano/keyboard musician and particularly enjoys accompanying choirs and improvising. Originally a classroom Music teacher, she left that to focus on performing rather than just talking about it! Rachel can be found in all manner of care venues for Music in Hospitals across the country, theatrical shows, working with child and adult choirs and is a regular accompanist for the Hallé.
Rachel has composed music for BBC Radio 4 documentaries and is keenly staying ‘current’ in her music technology abilities.
Hephzibah Isherwood
Theory Tutor
Hephzibah is the theory tutor for Dark Peak Music Foundation.
She is a pianist and Community Musician specialising in Music For Health. She works a diverse portfolio including therapeutic music in the Manchester Children's Hospital, teaching music to the blind, running music for well-being projects, working with music for dementia and with carers for mental health sufferers, placements in specialised disability schools and residential homes, and teaching instrumental groups in primary schools as well as privately. Her passion is making music accessible to all and unlocking the power of music to enable people to connect, communicate, and be creative.
She has been teaching at the theory class at Dark Peak for several years. The classes are efficient and structured yielding great results.
Hephzibah is the theory tutor for Dark Peak Music Foundation.
She is a pianist and Community Musician specialising in Music For Health. She works a diverse portfolio including therapeutic music in the Manchester Children's Hospital, teaching music to the blind, running music for well-being projects, working with music for dementia and with carers for mental health sufferers, placements in specialised disability schools and residential homes, and teaching instrumental groups in primary schools as well as privately. Her passion is making music accessible to all and unlocking the power of music to enable people to connect, communicate, and be creative.
She has been teaching at the theory class at Dark Peak for several years. The classes are efficient and structured yielding great results.
Rachel Whibley
Woodwind Consultant
Rachel is a professional bassoonist, a graduate of the RNCM, and has worked extensively with many of the top UK orchestras including the BBC Philharmonic, Hallé, Liverpool Philharmonic, Northern Chamber Orchestra and Manchester Camerata. In addition, she has worked for several international orchestras including Tenerife Symphony Orchestra and Bolshoi Ballet. She spent 4 happy years in Dublin working with the RTE Symphony and Concert orchestras, and in Belfast with the Ulster Orchestra.
Rachel has had the privilege of teaching many pupils of all levels over the last 20 years, and has recently been appointed as bassoon tutor at Birmingham Conservatoire. She has been an ensemble director at DPMF since its inception, conducting the Intermediate Wind band until last year. She now helps the music centre in an advisory capacity.
Rachel is the founder and managing director of Carrot Productions.
Rachel is a professional bassoonist, a graduate of the RNCM, and has worked extensively with many of the top UK orchestras including the BBC Philharmonic, Hallé, Liverpool Philharmonic, Northern Chamber Orchestra and Manchester Camerata. In addition, she has worked for several international orchestras including Tenerife Symphony Orchestra and Bolshoi Ballet. She spent 4 happy years in Dublin working with the RTE Symphony and Concert orchestras, and in Belfast with the Ulster Orchestra.
Rachel has had the privilege of teaching many pupils of all levels over the last 20 years, and has recently been appointed as bassoon tutor at Birmingham Conservatoire. She has been an ensemble director at DPMF since its inception, conducting the Intermediate Wind band until last year. She now helps the music centre in an advisory capacity.
Rachel is the founder and managing director of Carrot Productions.
Our Musical Directors are skilled professionals each bringing their own specialist experience to the Music Centre.
We are proud to have such a talented and diverse group of musicians to support and develop our young players. Each Director leads an ensemble, as well as having developmental and pastoral duties as circumstances require.
Our Directors are supported by musical assistants and parent helpers.
Our Musical Directors
Andy Zuntz
Chair of Trustees
Andy Zuntz is a long-term resident of Glossop, and is involved in a range of community groups and projects across the area. After a career in local government Andy now works as a leadership consultant, and as trustee or director of a number of organisations.
Andy’s daughter Ellie was a member of Dark Peak from an early age until she went on to study music and a pursue a career in the music world. She always credited Jeff and Dark Peak Music and its many branches with pointing her in the right direction. So when Dark Peak needed a Chair prior to the merger with Glossop Strings, Andy was keen to give the organisation his support.
Since then Andy has taken great pleasure in being Chair of Dark Peak, working with Jeff Snowdon, the EDs and other Trustees to ensure that the music foundation continues to develop and support young musicians across the Glossopdale area.
Andy plays baritone saxophone in the Dark Peak Light Orchestra, guided by Jeff’s baton .
Andy Zuntz is a long-term resident of Glossop, and is involved in a range of community groups and projects across the area. After a career in local government Andy now works as a leadership consultant, and as trustee or director of a number of organisations.
Andy’s daughter Ellie was a member of Dark Peak from an early age until she went on to study music and a pursue a career in the music world. She always credited Jeff and Dark Peak Music and its many branches with pointing her in the right direction. So when Dark Peak needed a Chair prior to the merger with Glossop Strings, Andy was keen to give the organisation his support.
Since then Andy has taken great pleasure in being Chair of Dark Peak, working with Jeff Snowdon, the EDs and other Trustees to ensure that the music foundation continues to develop and support young musicians across the Glossopdale area.
Andy plays baritone saxophone in the Dark Peak Light Orchestra, guided by Jeff’s baton .
Emma Blaney
Deputy Chair of Trustees
Emma has lived in Glossop for the last 16 years, working as a scientist and Operations Manager in the pharmaceutical sector. She has 3 grown up children, 2 of whom have been actively involved in Dark Peak music for many years.
Appreciating the huge amount of enjoyment and camaraderie that her children felt, Emma was keen to help out, to ensure the music centre would continue to grow and bring joy to the children and families of the High Peak.
Emma started contributing to Dark Peak events as a parent helper, and became a Trustee and Deputy Chair in 2021.
Furthermore, Emma worked with Jeff to launch the Dark Peak Light Orchestra in 2021, extending the scope of the music centre to include adults in the area. Emma plays the violin in the orchestra and occasionally the piano.
Emma has lived in Glossop for the last 16 years, working as a scientist and Operations Manager in the pharmaceutical sector. She has 3 grown up children, 2 of whom have been actively involved in Dark Peak music for many years.
Appreciating the huge amount of enjoyment and camaraderie that her children felt, Emma was keen to help out, to ensure the music centre would continue to grow and bring joy to the children and families of the High Peak.
Emma started contributing to Dark Peak events as a parent helper, and became a Trustee and Deputy Chair in 2021.
Furthermore, Emma worked with Jeff to launch the Dark Peak Light Orchestra in 2021, extending the scope of the music centre to include adults in the area. Emma plays the violin in the orchestra and occasionally the piano.
Clare Hennessy
Treasurer
Clare is a Glossop resident and an active member of her local community groups, in particular participating in rewilding and litter picking. She is also a member of a local choir, enjoys running and has, most recently, discovered the joy of jigsaw puzzles!
Her son, Luca, has played trumpet with Dark Peak Music Foundation since he started in year 3.
She has been treasurer for Dark Peak since 2021, and volunteers regularly at the many events.
Clare is a Glossop resident and an active member of her local community groups, in particular participating in rewilding and litter picking. She is also a member of a local choir, enjoys running and has, most recently, discovered the joy of jigsaw puzzles!
Her son, Luca, has played trumpet with Dark Peak Music Foundation since he started in year 3.
She has been treasurer for Dark Peak since 2021, and volunteers regularly at the many events.
Carolyn Woodham
Secretary
Carolyn became involved in the Dark Peak Music Foundation shortly after her eldest child, Daniel, began trombone lessons at the age of 8 and joined GJWB. She became a Trustee in 2014 and has been Secretary since 2016.
Carolyn has lived in Glossop for 18 years and has 3 teenage children, all of whom were lucky enough to have the opportunity to go on the Concert Band Tour to Spain in August 2022, which was a fantastic experience!
As a musician herself, Carolyn was keen to become involved with Dark Peak Music and work with the Musical Directors and other Trustees to ensure that the music centre continues to grow and provide exciting opportunities for all young musicians in the area.
Carolyn has worked in music education for 25 years. She studied bassoon at the Royal Academy of Music and then completed a PGCE at the University of Reading, before becoming first a primary school teacher with responsibility for music and then Head of Music at a Prep school in London.
After moving to Glossop in 2005, Carolyn established a private piano teaching practice and now also works as a Music Support Practitioner, assisting with the delivery of Wider Opportunities whole class instrumental programmes in local primary schools.
Whilst living in London, Carolyn was principal bassoon in the Ernest Read Symphony Orchestra for 10 years, taking part in many of their concerts for children at the Royal Festival Hall. Carolyn now enjoys playing bassoon in the Dark Peak Light Orchestra, which she joined when it was established in 2021.
Carolyn became involved in the Dark Peak Music Foundation shortly after her eldest child, Daniel, began trombone lessons at the age of 8 and joined GJWB. She became a Trustee in 2014 and has been Secretary since 2016.
Carolyn has lived in Glossop for 18 years and has 3 teenage children, all of whom were lucky enough to have the opportunity to go on the Concert Band Tour to Spain in August 2022, which was a fantastic experience!
As a musician herself, Carolyn was keen to become involved with Dark Peak Music and work with the Musical Directors and other Trustees to ensure that the music centre continues to grow and provide exciting opportunities for all young musicians in the area.
Carolyn has worked in music education for 25 years. She studied bassoon at the Royal Academy of Music and then completed a PGCE at the University of Reading, before becoming first a primary school teacher with responsibility for music and then Head of Music at a Prep school in London.
After moving to Glossop in 2005, Carolyn established a private piano teaching practice and now also works as a Music Support Practitioner, assisting with the delivery of Wider Opportunities whole class instrumental programmes in local primary schools.
Whilst living in London, Carolyn was principal bassoon in the Ernest Read Symphony Orchestra for 10 years, taking part in many of their concerts for children at the Royal Festival Hall. Carolyn now enjoys playing bassoon in the Dark Peak Light Orchestra, which she joined when it was established in 2021.
Tina Betts
Trustee
Tina: life-long Glossopian. A mum to 3 girls and full-time working Chartered physiotherapist.
Tina’s 3 girls are all accomplished musicians, but it is her youngest daughter that has been a member of the Dark Peak Music Foundation since the age of 9. She is an accomplished flute and piano player, and thoroughly enjoys her time with Dark Peak. Her recent high-light performing 1st Flute at the Royal Albert Hall London in November 2023.
Tina has supported the Dark Peak as a trustee and parent helper for a number of years. Tina enjoys being part of the Dark Peak family, actively involved with music foundation performance events, assisting with the progressive development of the music foundation, and she takes a special interest in the supervision and safeguarding of the young performers.
Tina: life-long Glossopian. A mum to 3 girls and full-time working Chartered physiotherapist.
Tina’s 3 girls are all accomplished musicians, but it is her youngest daughter that has been a member of the Dark Peak Music Foundation since the age of 9. She is an accomplished flute and piano player, and thoroughly enjoys her time with Dark Peak. Her recent high-light performing 1st Flute at the Royal Albert Hall London in November 2023.
Tina has supported the Dark Peak as a trustee and parent helper for a number of years. Tina enjoys being part of the Dark Peak family, actively involved with music foundation performance events, assisting with the progressive development of the music foundation, and she takes a special interest in the supervision and safeguarding of the young performers.
Phil Steadman
Trustee
Phil has worked in the Telecommunications industry for over 40 years and is employed as a Network Consultant in a large Service Provider. His main passion however, is music and has been a performing musician since his early teens.
With many years of experience in leading and directing various types of bands, Phil has played violin for the Dark Peak Light Orchestra since shortly after its inception. He also plays several saxophones in a plethora of different bands from jazz and big band through to funk, soul, ska and classical as well as in show bands for musicals, in which he plays violin and woodwinds..
As a director and leader of several bands, Phil is also a composer and arranger but also enjoys mentoring and developing musicians of all ages.
Having lived in Glossop since 1999 and having played in local groups most of his life, Phil has a keen interest in engaging with, and supporting the musical community in the region.
Phil has worked in the Telecommunications industry for over 40 years and is employed as a Network Consultant in a large Service Provider. His main passion however, is music and has been a performing musician since his early teens.
With many years of experience in leading and directing various types of bands, Phil has played violin for the Dark Peak Light Orchestra since shortly after its inception. He also plays several saxophones in a plethora of different bands from jazz and big band through to funk, soul, ska and classical as well as in show bands for musicals, in which he plays violin and woodwinds..
As a director and leader of several bands, Phil is also a composer and arranger but also enjoys mentoring and developing musicians of all ages.
Having lived in Glossop since 1999 and having played in local groups most of his life, Phil has a keen interest in engaging with, and supporting the musical community in the region.
Kirsty Morbey
Trustee
Kirsty Morbey has lived in Glossop for 20 years and is a great supporter of the High Peak area. Kirsty is a Partner in a local solicitors’ firm and spends as much time as possible, supporting local community events.
Kirsty’s two children are both members of Dark Peak. Her daughter plays the Flute in the Concert Band and Youth Orchestra and is a member of the 4 piece Flutz ensemble. Her son plays the Clarinet and is part of the Intermediate wind band. Both of her children will be part of the forthcoming tour to Leipzig.
Both of Kirsty’s children were members of Dark Peak during the Covid pandemic. Kirsty was so impressed with the way that all the ensembles carried on throughout such difficult times and still brought all the players and families together ( albeit virtually ), that when things returned to normal, Kirsty wanted to support Dark Peak as much a possible and became a Trustee in late 2021.
Since then, Kirsty has assisted in the establishment of the Dark Peak Friends group, which welcomes all supporters, to become involved with the ‘behind the scenes’ arrangements, that are integral to making the Dark Peak concerts and events run smoothly. She is supported by her husband Andrew who, as a former theatre Electrician, is a great help in staging Dark Peak’s events. Kirsty also takes the lead in organizing the annual Dark Peak Elderly Friends Tea party.
Kirsty is very proud to be a Dark Peak Trustee and enjoys working with all the other Board members and EDs, to continue to support the music foundation, in its ongoing development and success.
Kirsty Morbey has lived in Glossop for 20 years and is a great supporter of the High Peak area. Kirsty is a Partner in a local solicitors’ firm and spends as much time as possible, supporting local community events.
Kirsty’s two children are both members of Dark Peak. Her daughter plays the Flute in the Concert Band and Youth Orchestra and is a member of the 4 piece Flutz ensemble. Her son plays the Clarinet and is part of the Intermediate wind band. Both of her children will be part of the forthcoming tour to Leipzig.
Both of Kirsty’s children were members of Dark Peak during the Covid pandemic. Kirsty was so impressed with the way that all the ensembles carried on throughout such difficult times and still brought all the players and families together ( albeit virtually ), that when things returned to normal, Kirsty wanted to support Dark Peak as much a possible and became a Trustee in late 2021.
Since then, Kirsty has assisted in the establishment of the Dark Peak Friends group, which welcomes all supporters, to become involved with the ‘behind the scenes’ arrangements, that are integral to making the Dark Peak concerts and events run smoothly. She is supported by her husband Andrew who, as a former theatre Electrician, is a great help in staging Dark Peak’s events. Kirsty also takes the lead in organizing the annual Dark Peak Elderly Friends Tea party.
Kirsty is very proud to be a Dark Peak Trustee and enjoys working with all the other Board members and EDs, to continue to support the music foundation, in its ongoing development and success.
Dr. Emma Jones
Trustee
Our Trustees
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