Harpenden Musicale

Specialties

A music leisure service for children and adults. Instruction in all orchestral and band instruments, backed up with a fully stocked music shop selling sheet music, accessories, instruments and musical gifts. Also holiday music courses during the summer.

History

Established in 1977.

Established in 1977 in the Gill and David Johnston’s front room.

Meet the Business Owner

David J.

Business Owner

David Johnston began his career teaching at Marshalswick School in St Albans. From there he was appointed Head of Woodwind for the London Borough of Barnet. During this time he accepted lecturing posts at London University and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and made a name ahead of his time as a champion of group instrumental teaching. Harpenden Musicale was developing alongside all of this activity and eventually David joined his wife, Gill, full time in the business. Today Musicale provides musical opportunities for hundreds of students all over the country. David and Gill have also formed the charity, The National Children’s Wind Orchestra with its six associated groups. This group has performed at home and abroad, including appearances at the BBC Promenade Concerts. David’s children are all professional musicians, and David is principal clarinet in the Haydn chamber Orchestra and also co principal of the Salomon Orchestra.