Biography
Wayne's musical career started early; before he learnt to speak he used to play around with pianos and keyboards at every opportunity. Magically, (circa 1984 and pictured right) Wayne acquired a keyboard for Christmas. This sparked an interest in music and working out melodies on the piano. As soon as his feet could reach the pedals, a piano was introduced. Favouring making up tunes rather than playing scales, it was decided that some classical education was needed. After years of classical piano alongside a more compositional approach, Wayne discovered blues and improvisation on a deeper level. After soaking up Jimmy Yancey and Pete Johnson Wayne heard a recording of 'Night Train' by the Oscar Peterson Trio. That album opened his eyes to jazz piano and paved the way for his Jazz career. After years of practice and study Wayne was heard by US pianist James Williams in Surrey on a gig. Wayne had heard James on many Art Blakey records and approached him for a lesson after their first meeting. Since then and up until James' untimely death in July 2004, James provided Wayne with endless guidance and encouragement to become a professional pianist. James remains a huge influence on Wayne's own playing and philosophies. In 2000 James Williams invited Wayne to play with his Trio at Dean Street's Pizza Express in London featuring Andy Cleyndert on Bass and Mark Mondesir on Drums. After the set, James introduced Wayne to Joey Calderazzo, Jeff 'Tain' Watts and Jean Toussaint, who were all listening in the dark corners of the jazz club without Wayne knowing.
Over the last few years Wayne has been involved in various bands and projects and played with some of the worlds finest musicians. Some include: Tim Garland, Ed Thigpen, Andy Cleyndert, James Williams, Bobby Wellins, Alan Barnes, Geoff Simkins, Malcolm Crease, Mark Mondasir, to name a few.
As well as performing, Wayne is actively involved with Jazz education, and holds a BA (hons) degree and a M.A in Musicology and Performance. He gives lectures/workshops and master classes in universities and schools across the country. In addition, he will be starting a PhD this year in jazz studies. He is currently Associate Lecturer and jazz piano tutor at the University of Chichester. He also runs his own private teaching practice for jazz piano students.
