Shirley Stokes. Originally from Portsmouth, Shirley started playing the clarinet at the age of 11. By the age of 15, She was playing for various ensembles in Portsmouth including pit orchestras. AT the age of 17, she joined the Staff Band Womens Royal Army Corps and served for 8 years. After leaving the Army, Shirley continued to play in orchestras and other ensembles and in 1994 she moved to Devon. At present, she is principal clarinet of Torbay Symphony Orchestra which she joined in 2011 and also plays in various wind bands. She is a very fine clarinettist but has diversified into playing timps, cymbals and tuned percussion in brass bands.
Samson Spooner. Samson is a pupil at Torquay Boys’ Grammar School. He has lessons on drum kit, tuned percussion and orchestral snare. Samson also plays at Torbay and South South Devon Music Centre and is involved in musical activities at school as well as taking part in the school shows. Samson has a keen interest in zoology and ornithology. He also enjoys singing and swimming.
We are very lucky to have a strong link with the Silver Trumpets Corps of Drums. www.silvertrummpets.co.uk. They provide a special added extra to some of our events.