In this episode, Andy and Jonathan chat to John Barber, the Director of the Love Music Trust, principal trombonist with the world famous Fodens' Band, teacher and author. John is enjoying a fantastic career in music education and our conversation is wide-ranging, embracing reflections on the experiences and people that have shaped his life, as well as looking forward to the challenges and opportunities facing the newly appointed music hubs once they are established next year.

At a time when qualifications such as the Music A level are under threat, we also spent some discussing the innovative Cheshire Specialist Music Course, a partnership with the Royal Northern College of Music and Sandbach School, that offers students an enhanced A level music programme.

Andy and Jonathan have chatted with many people for the Music, Learning, Conversation podcast, but John stands out for his commitment to the highest quality of musicianship within his own work, as well as the design, implementation and management of the highest quality music education opportunities for our young people.

Music Learning Conversation is hosted by Jonathan Savage and Andy Scott, and is a UCAN Play podcast.

Produced by Josh Savage

Title Music - JellyBaby
Written and Performed by Dave Hassell & Andy Scott
Remix by Stan Scott
Voice over Sam Marsden
Mixed & Produced by Paul Dormer