Originally from the Scottish Borders, Tom grew up surrounded by music, often watching his mum playing in the Orchestra of Scottish Opera. Tom first found his love of performing through playing the saxophone in jazz ensembles and big bands. After being exposed to string playing within Aberdeen’s City Music Service, he then gravitated more towards the double bass, progressing through various national ensembles. Thanks to playing Strauss’ ‘Alpine Symphony’ with the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland, Tom was so hooked that he decided to pursue the double bass for a career.

Although having been exposed to the double bass from an early age, Tom only started having formal lessons at 14 from his mum, Sarah Neil, and then Richard Lewis. Tom came to Birmingham in 2015 to study at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire with Thomas Martin and Tony Alcock. He then continued to study with Tony Alcock on the Orchestral Postgraduate Course, involving a side-by-side scheme with the CBSO.

Since graduating, Tom has enjoyed a varied freelance career, performing with many ensembles such as the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, CBSO, RTE NSO, BBC Philharmonic, Birmingham Royal Ballet & Scottish Opera (McOpera).

In Tom’s spare time, he enjoys hiking and going on adventures with his wife or he can be found under the bonnet of his latest classic car restoration project.