Philip Andrews was born in Alton, Hampshire, UK in 1951.

He comes from a musical family, and it was his father – a musician himself – who taught him to read music and play an instrument at the age of seven.

Philip is a prolific composer of orchestral and choral music, for mixed choir and solo voices. He has also had success with his chamber ensemble compositions, most notably his Jane Austen and Chawton Suites.

As a saxophonist, Philip is a regular member of the Basingstoke Concert Band, with whom he has performed across Europe – while he has also conducted the band on many occasions. This association has naturally led to many original compositions and arrangements for this particular genre.  Philip has had numerous pieces published for concert band which have been sold worldwide.

In 1998, Philip’s composition The Hills Of May became the title track of an album released by the band.

Philip is also a founder member of Anglo Sax saxophone quartet, which has now been in existence for more than 20 years.

His taste in music is very diverse, with a strong attachment to jazz and classical music. For many years he was a member of a choir where he sang bass, and it was during this time that his love and knowledge of choral music, and choral writing, was gained.

Time spent and valuable conversations with such respected English composers as Sir Richard Rodney Bennett, George Lloyd and Michael Hurd – all of whom gave first-rate advice – proved to be inspiring and confidence boosting.

The Cornish composer/conductor Judith Bailey also provided support and encouragement. Philip’s composition A Hampshire Portrait was commissioned by Judith, and she then conducted performances with the Southampton Concert Orchestra.

Philip worked for more than 15 years as a music teacher in private schools in the south of England and with individual pupils, but now focuses on composing, arranging and performing.