Regarded as one of the foremost euphonium players in the world today.  Robert was born in the small north Derbyshire village of Stanley Common.  He started his playing career at the age of six with the local village band under the guidance of George Doughty (arranger of the well-known Euphonium solo "Grandfather Clock") and it was not longer before Robert's potential as a player was realised when he was successful in obtaining Distinction at Grade 8 at the age of 12.

Robert's early banding positions included the 2nd Euphonium position at Calverton Colliery Band and later, brief spells on the Principal Euphonium seat at South East Derbyshire Music Centre Band and the Matlock Band.

In 1982 Robert was thrilled to be given the Principal Euphonium position at the newly crowned British Open Champions "The City of Coventry Band".  During his time with the band he enjoyed prize-winning performances at all the major contests and also gave solo performances in the UK, Europe, South Africa and USA.

In 1991 Robert was appointed Principal Euphonium of the then named Rigid Containers Group Band.  During his time with the band he has enjoyed prize winning performances at all the major contests and the highlight was being awarded the title in 1993 of "Brass in Concert Solo Champion" at the prestigious Entertainment Contest held in Spennymoor, rising above the worlds finest line up of Brass Band soloists ever to compete in one entertainment contest.

In 2002 Robert had a small break away from the Band and played with the Ransome Band from Newark.  However, he has since rejoined the Travelsphere Band and is looking forward to further success.

Robert is constantly in demand as a guest soloist with ensembles throughout the UK and abroad.  He has been featured on BBC television, BBC radio and Classic FM.  He currently works in the sales office of an air conditioning distributor in North Derbyshire.