Justin Brook

Justin began his musical career as a Military Musician in the Light Infantry as a Clarinettist, Saxophonist and Pianist where he served for 11 years in various postings including a year of study at Kneller Hall where he was taught clarinet and saxophone by Paul Harvey. On leaving the Army Justin moved to Powys in mid Wales and became a free-lance Music Teacher. He taught Woodwind and Piano as well as being a visiting specialist in Primary Schools. In 1993 Powys disbanded the Music Service so all the instrumental teachers became self employed. This left many gaps in musical education so Justin founded Open Score Community Band. Sixteen years later Open Score Community Band had several branches; North Powys Big Band, North Powys Jazz Ensemble, Powys Clarinet Choir, Powys Flute Choir and The Powys Woodwind Ensemble all of which were directed and administered by Justin and funded by the Welsh Assembly. Most of these groups still function today. In 2006 Justin decided to move to Aberdeenshire having spent a couple of years previously studying for an Advanced Jazz Diploma at The University of St Andrews.

In 2002 Justin also studied at the Royal Northern College of Music and gained The Teaching Certificate for the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music

In November 2006 Justin secured the position of Instrumental Music Service Co-ordinator for Aberdeenshire. He manages Youth Music Initiative (YMI) activities that are delivered through the Instrumental Music Service. YMI projects are funded by the Scottish Government via the Scottish Arts Council. Part of his job is to initiate change and this he has done through starting new programmes and developing existing ones.

Justin has been teaching at Chalmers Mackay since 2006. He teaches Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone and Piano. Jazz education is featured in all of Justin lessons. Examinations in all of these instruments are offered as well as the chance to take Jazz examinations.

Justin also presently directs the Chalmers Mackay Jazz Band.