Double bassist Danny Cleave grew up in South Devon, and attended school locally before moving to London to pursue his musical career at the Royal College of Music, where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree before studying towards a Master’s degree as a H R Taylor Charitable Trust Scholar supported by the Gandar Dower Scholarship, which he finished with distinction.
Since his time in London he has performed extensively within the RCM and and also outside, performing under conductors such as Martyn Brabbins, Rafael Payare and Vasily Petrenko. Since graduating, he is also delighted to have performed with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra as one of their fellows for the 23/24 season, and also in Southbank Sinfonia as a fellow for the 23/24 season. He is also regular principal bass with chamber orchestra, the Piccadilly Sinfonietta.
Danny’s passion for teaching and facilitating music with others began in secondary school when he ran his school’s folk music ensemble to great success. Since studying in London he has been lucky enough to study under Caroline Emery, a renowned teacher of the Double Bass for students of all ages, who has mentored him in effective bass teaching. He has taught at Westminster Abbey Choir School (maternity cover) and most recently became bass teacher for Scales Music School in Barnes, London.