Callum Au
One of the UK’s top music composers – who has worked with the likes of jazz artist Jamie Cullum, pop star Jessie J and the BBC’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra – is hosting a webinar for budding musicians in Derby.
Callum Au, who is also a successful arranger and trombonist, will lead the session for Hot House Music; the not-for-profit organisation which has schools across the UK – including Derby, Nottingham and Burton.
Born in London to a Scottish mother and father of Chinese heritage, Callum recently released a single with celebrated vocalist Claire Martin. He has established himself with one of the busiest orchestras in the country with work including the Friday Night is Music Night Live series with Tom Chaplin and Imelda May and Beverley Knight’s 25th anniversary concert at the Festival Hall.
On top of that, he has freelanced for multiple West End musicals, at the BBC proms, and as a session musician on many recordings for film and TV.
A pupil of veteran UK trumpeter Terry Reaney, Callum joined Bill Ashton’s National Youth Jazz Orchestra at the age of 15 and these early opportunities have helped to install within him a strong commitment to connecting with and inspiring the next generation of players – including those at Hot House Music.
Hot House Music Founder Jon Eno, who recently held an online session for teachers and students with 1975 saxophonist John Waugh, is looking forward to gaining an insight into Callum’s wider career.
He said: “The webinar will be a great opportunity for our students to see where music can take them, as there are endless possibilities. Plus, we’re really grateful to be able to work alongside such a musical talent such as Callum to gain insight into his glittering career.
“We are hoping the webinar will inspire many of our very talented pupils, who are tipped to be the next generation of popstars, rock stars and musical icons.”
Callum, whose album Songs and Stories – featuring celebrated jazz singer Claire Martin – is currently in the charts, is looking forward to sharing inside knowledge with the people of Derby and Derbyshire.
He said: “I’m really looking forward to my session at Hot House Music next month. It’s always a real pleasure to meet and interact with the next generation of musical superstars and I can’t wait to explore with them the various roles that different musicians play within a big band, sharing insider knowledge about the music industry.”
The webinar will be supported by leading wind instrument manufacturer, Yamaha. Their Product Marketing Specialist, Jeremy Smith, added: “It is great to see Yamaha artists such as Callum giving so generously of their time and expertise. Of course the webinar is a must for trombonists, but Callum’s experience as a composer, arrange and orchestrator suggests there’ll be something of interest for all big band and jazz ensemble players.”
The webinar is taking place this Friday (5th March).
