Seán Hooper

Music, particularly percussion, has been my lifelong passion. I've had the privilege of turning that passion into a fulfilling career, performing and teaching on some of the most prestigious stages.

Extensive Performance Experience:

• Royal Ballet Company, English National Ballet, and Ballet Rambert

• Royal Opera Company and English National Opera Company (including performances at the Metropolitan Opera House, New York)

• Resident Orchestral Percussionist for "42nd Street" in London's West End

• Tenerife Symphony Orchestra, Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, Sinfonietta Orchestras

• City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and the RTE Orchestra in Dublin

Passionate Educator:

While based in London, I served as Professor of Percussion at both the London College of Music and the junior department of the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

Bringing Samba to Cornwall:

Following a move to Cornwall, I embraced the vibrant world of Samba percussion. Fatefully, I met Emma Skilton, a leading British Samba dancer, and together we co-founded the Truro School of Samba.

High-Energy Performances:

The Truro School of Samba quickly gained recognition, performing for:

• The Olympic flame in Truro

• The Mayor's Thames Festival in London (one of only two non-London bands invited)

• Truro City of Lights procession (annual event drawing 30,000 spectators)

Musical Director and Author:

In addition to performing and teaching, I served as Musical Director for the City of Lights until its closure. I've also contributed well-received articles to "Brass Band World" and authored the textbook "Samba for Schools."

This glimpse into my background showcases a life dedicated to the art of percussion. As a player and educator, I firmly believe that experience breeds excellence. My diverse career, spanning high-level performances to grassroots education, fuels my passion for creating the finest percussion accessories.