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 such as quartets and trios as well as pursuing his own solo projects.In addition to performing, Rhys teaches both saxophone and clarinet, and is available for live performances and session work.
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, including 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.Rhys also performs regularly for corporate events, with appearances at prestigious venues such as The Ned 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.Lessons are currently offered in pupils' homes and are tailored to each individual's goals and interests. A typical one-hour lesson may include time spent on music theory and improvisation techniques, in addition to learning repertoire.Rhys offers a free taster lesson, with discounted lesson packages available on request. For more information, please get in touch.
Testimonials:
"I always look forward to my lessons with Rhys because he makes them fun and adapts them to whatever we need to focus on. He is also a fantastic saxophonist! I highly recommend him as a teacher and a musician." - Saxophone Student, 13 years old