Michael Skinner (2)

Classical percussionist, Professor of Percussion, and author. In 1960, he joined the City of Belfast Symphony Orchestra playing snare drum and xylophone. Coming to London in 1962, he began freelancing as an orchestral percussionist. In 1963 he joined the Sadler's Wells Opera Company as Principal Percussionist leaving in December 1968 to freelance again. Between 1970 and 1972, he was Principal Percussionist of the London Philharmonic Orchestra and between 1972 and 1973, Principal Percussionist of the New Philharmonia Orchestra. In October 1973, he joined the Orchestra Of The Royal Opera House, Covent Garden as Principal Percussion, a position he held for 31 years. Founder member of The Guild Of Ancient Drums And Fifes. He was Professof of Percussion at the Royal College Of Music, London, Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, and The Guildhall School Of Music & Drama (since 1989).