Peter Sparkes Email and Phone Number

Pete is a musician and educator specialising in working with technology and inclusive methodology. Pete has been Artistic Director of Drake Music Scotland since 2010 working with an amazing team of Associate Musicians to deliver an award winning programme of national and international projects. He worked with disabled musicians at Drake Music Scotland to found Digital Orchestra in 2016 - this is now recognised as a trailblazing ensemble.As well as leading the artistic programme at Drake Music Scotland - his particular specialism is working creatively with children and adults with additional support needs – including the use of music technology and other innovative tools like Figurenotes notation. He regularly presents on this topic at international conferences and co-leads a module at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland with composer Oliver Searle.He was Education Officer of the Scottish Chamber Orchestra from 2002-2005 working with them on a variety of creative and ambitious projects. As a freelance project leader he has devised and delivered creative music projects with many different participant groups for various organisations including: Drake Music Scotland, Scottish Book Trust, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Artlink Central, and Jessie’s Fund.Pete is a graduate of the Creative & Cultural Skills Future Leaders programme 2011 and was Scottish Chamber Orchestra Education Fellow 2007.He has a keen interest and knowledge of performing arts education, with a particular focus on inclusion and working in Scotland’s funding landscape. He firmly believes that Performing Arts can and should have a greater presence, relevance and influence in our society.He still loves to play trombone in and around Edinburgh - currently with Sound Of Seventeen Big Band and Shunpike Social Club Street Band.Pete also serves on the Board of Catherine Wheels Theatre Company, Scotland's most celebrated producer of theatre for children and young people.