Don studied the Bassoon with Gareth Newman and became a member of the Royal Marines Band Service. He was Principal Bassoon for much of his 32-year tenure, performing for many important occasions including the handover of Hong Kong, major sporting events and private dinners for the Royal Family and HM Government. He also spent time as the Bassoon Instructor at the Royal Marines School of Music.
Don is currently the Conductor of Symphony Orchestra, Classroom and Bassoon teacher at St Catherine’s School. He is also the Conductor for Brass Roots at Southampton Music Service, where he also teaches all woodwind instruments. He has been the Musical Director of Meridian Winds since 2008 where he guided them to both Gold and Silver awards; he has also been a guest conductor for the National Wind Band Association.