Christine Brown Trust

About the trustees

John Apps

John is a retired GP having worked in Roundhay for thirty-five years. He has always had an interest in music, having been taught piano by an inspirational teacher in the North East from the age of seven. He also played the cello and organ at school, sang in the school choir and played in the string section of Durham County Youth Orchestra.

During his time as a student in Leeds he sang with the University Choral Society. When he became a GP in Leeds, he joined the Leeds Festival Chorus with whom he still sings.

He has been, and continues to be, a supporter of the Leeds International Piano Competition.

Playing the piano and listening to music from the classical repertoire continues to be a major part of his recreational life.

Hilary Garrett

Hilary Garrett is a piano teacher with some 30 years' experience. She taught at the Froebelian school in Horsforth, Leeds as well as running a private practice at home. She was a pupil and friend of Christine Brown for many years and enjoyed attending many conferences, concerts and masterclasses with her.

Until recently, Hilary was the regional organizer for the local EPTA group (European Piano Teachers Association) and regularly holds their meetings at her house. Hosting examination sessions for the Associated Board and Trinity Guildhall on a regular basis gives her wide access to musically talented children from across the region.

Peter Maslin

Born in Cheltenham, Peter Maslin was a member of the NYO of GB from the age of 12 before going on to study at the RNCM and RCM with Yossi Zivoni and Raymond Cohen.

He freelanced with the London and BBC orchestras and has been the Co-Leader of the Orchestra of Opera North for many years, also performing in concerto and chamber music concerts. Both his daughters studied with Christine.

Sally Rose

Sally was born in Leeds and is from a non-musical background. She has two daughters who were heavily involved in musical activities in and around the Leeds area. She is therefore aware of the long term practical and financial commitment in furthering the experience and education of young musicians.

Whilst her daughters were at school Sally was a long serving committee member and later treasurer for a large local youth orchestra, raising funds to help supply bursaries, equipment and travel expenses for its members.

Both her daughters were taught by Christine Brown. Sally has very fond memories of lessons, trips to various masterclasses, competitions and concerts.

Lynne Staveley

Lynne was born and brought up in Leeds. She has played piano since the age of 7, and has been involved in many aspects of music making in the city, from Music Centres, schools' groups, orchestras and various choirs, to performing with a steel band at the West Indian Carnival.

Lynne was Head of German at Leeds Girls' High School, then Deputy Head of Queen Margaret 's School, York, and of Wakefield Girls ' High. She retired as headteacher of St Mary's C of E School in Belford, Northumberland, and is now based in Headingley. She teaches piano privately, and serves on the committee of the Friends of the Leeds International Pianoforte Competition.

Lynne met Christine Brown through membership of EPTA (the European Piano Teachers' Association) and as a neighbour in Roundhay. She very much admired and respected her as a senior colleague in the musical world.