N E W S

October 2016

Ben is back in the UK now, and will be based between London and Milton Keynes whilst continuing to study with Patrick Messina in Paris. He is currently putting together a schedule of concerts for the next season, while preparing for auditions and competitions, and setting up teaching studios, both in London and Milton Keynes. Ben recently received his Bachelor of Music certificate from the Royal Academy of Music in London after finally completing all of the modules.

 

F E A T U R E D   R E V I E W

'I have been lucky enough to travel extensively throughout my career and especially over the past decade I have given masterclasses in numerous different countries. Although I have often been dazzled by the sheer technical fluency which some of the students show in their performances I feel that many of them fail to reveal any real understanding of the composer's intentions and they are not moved by beauty of sound. The young British clarinettist, Ben Westlake, is a notable exception - he lives and breathes the clarinet and consequently his playing communicates not only technical assurance and flair but also an intelligent, inherent musicianship which belies his age. His CD is amazing and shows that his playing has soul. I recommend it very highly. '

David Campbell – international clarinettist, chamber musician and teacher