Experienced professional clarinettist and music educator with a national reputation for performance excellence and over three decades of high-level teaching. Currently on the instrumental tutor list at the University of Exeter, and delivering acclaimed concerts across the UK with pianist Jonathan Delbridge. Specialising in clarinet, piano, and saxophone instruction, with pupils ranging from beginners to HM Royal Marines musicians. Noted for my tone, technique, and musical insight, I have been praised by international figures including Sir James Galway and Wenzel Fuchs (Berlin Philharmonic). Alongside a distinguished performance and teaching career, I bring a background in civil service, computer programming, and coaching, and currently study pure mathematics in my spare time.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS – “Beautiful tone and technical authority.” – International Clarinet Association Journal - “Best clarinet playing we’ve ever heard… fingers were unbelievable.” – Crewkerne Parish Church - “We were in heaven during the Brahms.” – Chipping Sodbury Music Society - “Extremely high standards… the beautiful ‘Kevin Hurst tone’.” – Simon Topper, HM Royal Marines
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE 🎵 Professional Clarinettist & Music Educator Self-Employed, Devon | 2001–Present - Nationwide concert performances, including ICA guest appearance in Vancouver - Former “Making Music” featured artist - Wurlitzer Clarinet Artist by invitation - Teaching clarinet, piano, and saxophone - Pupils include professionals from HM Royal Marines - Piano teacher at Queen’s College, Taunton (2019–2024) - Instrumental tutor at University of Exeter - Director: East Devon Clarinet Choir 🏛 Civil Servant London HQ | 1991–2001 - Led teams in law enforcement policy and operations - Daily collaboration with senior officials and government ministers 💻 Graduate Analyst Programmer TSB Bank, London | 1989–1991 - Completed graduate programme in computer programming - Delivered mainframe applications in a high-pressure team 🎶 Clarinet Performer & Educator UK-based | 1984–1989 - Recitals, chamber music, contemporary ensembles - Taught at leading schools including Ampleforth and Bootham - Postgraduate study at RNCM, funded by Countess of Munster Musical Trust EDUCATION University of York BA (Hons) Music, 1984 Postgraduate research at RNCM (1987–88) Sir William Borlase’s Grammar School, Bucks 7 O Levels | A Levels in English, French, and Music Open University (Ongoing) Undergraduate studies in Pure Mathematics ADDITIONAL INFORMATION – Instruments Taught: Clarinet (ALCM), Piano (ABRSM Grade 8+), Saxophone - Coaching Qualifications: Former ECF (chess) & LTA (tennis) coach - Awards & Scholarships: – Bucks County Music Scholar – Countess of Munster Musical Trust Award – Multiple performance awards at York and RNCM - Other Skills: – Nationally ranked chess player (Top 200) – Extensive rehearsal pianist experience – Ensemble conductor and workshop leader in Devon & Bucks
References available upon request. Recordings and written references supplied separately.