Darren Fellows

Composer, trumpeter and teacher Darren Fellows is the author of Schott’s Jazzy Opera Classix series.

Having studied at the Welsh College of Music and Drama, Darren went on to play the trumpet in touring West End shows, namely South Pacific, meeting big names in musical theatre and gaining a wide reputation as a trumpet player. He is now based in Cardiff, where he works as a freelance trumpet player and is in much demand as a teacher and workshop presenter. Much of Darren’s time is dedicated to composing; he has written a short opera for children, film music, romantic piano pieces, educational teaching aids and collections of classical and jazz music for children.

Darren’s workshop – entitled ‘Opera in a Day!’ – is a fun and funky way to introduce opera to children and students. Focusing on elements such as plot, music and mood, participants will compose, perform and even record their own work in just one session! Workshops are not only a fantastic way to introduce opera and composition to the classroom; they are also guaranteed to be fun!

Suitable for	Classroom teachers wishing to explore methods of composition and opera
Facilities required	Large room with a piano, percussion instruments and participants’ own instruments
Duration	Full or half day
No. of participants	Up to 30
Publications used	Jazzy Opera Classix
Suitable for	Music students (years 8–13)
Facilities required	As above
Duration	As above
No. of participants	Up to 40
Publications used	As above

‘This is an ideal tool for introducing the young musician to opera music and teaching the basic principals of playing jazz to any young trumpeter’.
Dean Wright (Principal trumpet, Welsh National Opera)

‘I have played and used Jazzy Opera Classix with some of my students. As a classical trumpet player, I find the book enjoyable, informative and well organised – a must for the musician of any age!’.
Terry Lax (Former principal trumpet, Welsh National Opera)

‘I thought I would be bored by opera but it is surprising how many tunes I actually know! I like playing opera music now!’
Katie Pritchard (student)