Woodwind

We have five woodwind teachers working at the NMC teaching flute, clarinet and saxophone (alto & tenor).

Helen Wright B.Mus (Hons) (Flute, Clarinet & Saxophone)

Helen completed graded examinations on clarinet, saxophone, flute and piano whilst at school and went on to study music at the University of Wales Bangor and she graduated in 2002. Whilst she was there she majored in Performance (clarinet), Instrumental Teaching and Conducting. During this time, Helen performed in the University Symphony Orchestra, led the University Wind Band, and played in various ensembles, big bands and musical productions. Helen is an experienced performer and has over 10 years’ experience performing as a soloist, in local bands, ensembles and orchestras, and has successfully competed in local music festivals.

Nadiah Killick MA (Hons) BA (Hons) (Clarinet & Saxophone)

Nadiah recently graduated from Newcastle University with an honours degree in music, specialising in performance in her final year. Whilst at university she co-led the Newcastle University Jazz Orchestra. Nadiah has performed as a professional musician on the saxophone, clarinet and flute and has toured all over the country with various jazz, funk and soul bands. Notable gigs include recording for Mercury Records in 2006 and an appearance on Ginger’s most recent album, Yoni. She is now a full time instrumental teacher.

Rachel Dawson (nee Fuller) BA (Hons), DipABRSM CTABRSM (Flute)

Rachel has been studying flute since the age of eleven and later began piano. In 2006 she completed her undergraduate degree in music at the University of Newcastle, receiving first class honours in performance as well as gaining her performance diploma. She gained her master’s degree the following year specialising in flute performance. During her studies Rachel was principle flautist for the University Symphony Orchestra for three years consecutively, including a performance of Britten’s War Requiem at The Sage Gateshead. Rachel continues to enjoy performing both as a soloist and as part of ensembles. Past performances include a solo recital at the Literary & Philosophical Society as well as ensemble work with Teatro de Nieve both at The Sage and Caedmon Hall. As well as working at Northern Music Centre, Rachel teaches privately and in local schools.

Gary Turner B.Mus (Clarinet & Saxophone)

Gary started playing the saxophone at the age of twelve . He graduated from the Newcastle College Jazz course in 1992 .  He has played in a variety of bands ranging from function bands to latin/salsa and jazz bands, and currently plays and records with the local jazz quintet Extreme Measures who are supported by Jazz Action and Jazz North East . Gary also teaches privately and for Northumberland Music Service.

Katrina Buzzard MA DipABRSM (Clarinet)

Katrina began studying the clarinet at the age of nine in her local primary school and continued to do so through the remainder of her school education. In 2003 she gained her DipABRSM in clarinet performance, and in 2006 she graduated from Newcastle University with a First Class Honours degree in Music, specialising in performance. Katrina went on to complete her Masters degree in Music in 2007 and is currently in the final stages of a PhD. As well as teaching both privately and in local schools, Katrina is an active performer, performing regularly with Newcastle Sinfonietta and the Sirocco Sextet, and having recently enjoyed performances with Orchestra North East. Other highlights include performances of the Copland Clarinet Concerto and Mozart Clarinet Concerto.