Rhys Ponting
Rhys is a Cardiff based Multi-instrumentalist with a particular focus on the Saxophone and Clarinet. With extensive experience of playing across many genres, including Jazz, Pop, Funk/Soul, Indie and more.
Currently studying Jazz at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, Rhys plays in a number of bands, all over the UK, from Big Bands to smaller groups, quartets, trios etc. in addition to various solo projects.
Rhys teaches Saxophone and Clarinet as well as being available for gigs
Performing
Rhys currently plays lead alto saxophone for the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama Big Band as well as for the Cardiff based 'Siglo Section' Big Band - one of South Wales' premier big band/collectives. He regularly performs in the Capital City Jazz Orchestra. In addition to these, Rhys often appears in the RWCMD Friday night 'Amserjazz' sessions, regularly leading small ensembles as well as playing in other projects.He specialises in Straight ahead Swing and latin jazz music, but is not limited to these as he regularly performs in some of the country’s biggest function bands, such as Soul’d out and the Session Band. Rhys has also played at numerous music festivals, playing with singer-songwriter Tom Wright at Americymru festival and even co-headlining under his own name at the inaugural Iford Jazz Festival, run by acclaimed vocalist Claire Martin.He also plays regularly for corporate functions at established venues, such as The Ned Hotel and the Hilton Bankside, both five-star hotels in Central London.
Teaching
Rhys teaches 1-1 lessons in and around Cardiff, specialising in Saxophone and Clarinet.
He teaches all ranges of experience, from their first notes to the more experienced player and can prepare pupils for examinations, or simply those who want to improve their playing, theory and musicality.
He currently offers lessons at pupil's homes.
The lessons are tailored to each pupil, but a typical 1-hour lesson could include time spent on music theory and improvisation techniques, in addition to learning repertoire.
Rhys offers a free taster lesson and discounts packages available by negotiation.
For more details, please get in touch.
