Mike Walton is an experienced performer and teacher. As a performer, he directs and plays in Sound The Trumpets trumpet quartet and regularly writes or arranges music for this ensemble. He is also an accomplished orchestral trumpeter and soloist. For twenty years he was Head of Woodwind, Brass and Percussion at the Royal Grammar School, Newcastle - upon - Tyne where he continues to teach brass and direct ensembles. He was also a lecturer and examiner at the University of Sunderland. Having taught children from year 4 to mature students at Diploma level he is therefore extremely knowledgeable about the musical needs of students at all levels.