Influenced by her parent’s interest in music Tessa learnt to play the piano and clarinet when she was very young. In 1991 Tessa won the Cheltenham International Festival of Music award for Outstanding Young Musician.
She attended City University and the Guildhall School of Music in London initially studying the clarinet and then, driven by her emerging passion for Jazz, switching to saxophone in her second year and specialising in Jazz and Improvisation.
In 1991 Tessa began to play the saxophone in the National Youth Jazz Orchestra playing at many venues across the country which gave her an insight into life as a musician.
Whilst living in London Tessa played in the brass sections of many bands in the jazz and Acid Jazz scenes which included playing at the world famous Ronnie Scots club in Soho London amongst others.
Since returning to Gloucestershire Tessa has worked with many individuals and groups as a session musician for both live performances and studio recordings, and has played extensively both in the UK and abroad.
Tessa now teaches saxophone, clarinet and jazz piano at many schools including The Cheltenham Ladies’ College as well as tutoring individuals from beginners to accomplished musicians.
As Musical Director for the Gloucestershire Youth Jazz Ensemble, member of Swing Gitane (playing Parisian cafe music), The Cotswold Big Band and numerous duos, quartets and quintets Tessa is firmly at the heart of the Gloucestershire music scene.
For information about Tessa’s other musical services check-out Tessa Plays Jazz
