Gabs as an Accompanist and Coach
Alongside his career as a soloist, Gabs has established a strong reputation as a highly sought-after accompanist and chamber musician. This extensive collaborative experience, combined with his expertise as a teacher, places him in demand as an instrumental and vocal coach. He works with musicians of all levels—singers and instrumentalists alike—to deepen interpretation, refine stylistic awareness, strengthen ensemble skills, and prepare for performance at the highest level. Rather than concentrating on basic technical instruction, Gabs focuses on musical insight, expressive clarity, and the art of collaborative performance, helping musicians unlock the full potential of their chosen repertoire.
Gabs accompanying at the Holywell Music Room, Oxford
Piano Accompaniment and Continuo
Gabs has extensive experience as a piano accompanist and continuo player. As the main accompanist and Chapel Organist at St Edward’s, Oxford for over 20 years, he has accompanied instrumentalists and singers of all abilities for examinations, auditions and concerts.
He has worked widely with choirs and choral societies and offers expert preparation for any upcoming performance.
As a continuo player, Gabs has performed with the Chapel Choir of The Queen’s College, Oxford, as well as with Instruments of Time and Truth, bringing stylistic insight and sensitivity to both early and modern repertoire.
"What a wonderful pleasure to be guided by your beautiful playing"
Virginia, member of the St Edward's Singers, a Choral Society in North Oxford
"Mr D, [...] the electric playing of Christmas carols really is the tip of the iceberg, where so much hard work, attention to detail and care for all our own musical ideas comes to fruition. Most of all, it's been so fun; and for that, we will all remember..."
Patrick, on behalf of St Edward's School Chapel Choir
"Good luck in your new position. Thank you for all the years of magnificent accompaniment. We are going to miss you and all the fun we've had with you"
Paul and Alexandra
Piano Accompanying & 1:1 Coaching
Including: Accompaniment for Exams, Concerts, Auditions & Competitions
Vocal & Instrumental Coaching
Accompanying an ABRSM candidate - St Peter's College, Oxford
Gabs provides accompaniment and coaching for instrumental/vocal examinations, auditions, competitions, and concerts.
In addition, regardless of instrument or voice type, Gabs offers personalised practice sessions that focus on developing posture, breathing, technique, musicality, and performance skills. These sessions are tailored to individual needs, ensuring that each musician receives targeted guidance and support.
Gabs puts a strong emphasis on building confidence and reducing performance anxiety.
Keyboard playing for Choirs and Orchestras
Including: Repetiteuring for Choral & Operatic Societies.
Playing of Orchestral Keyboards, Musical Theatre & Ballet
Playing organ in Saint-Saens "Oratorio de Noel" - Wantage Parish Church
During his student years, Gabs took on orchestral keyboard and continuo work under renowned conductors, including the late Richard Hickox and Sir Colin Davis.
Since graduating from college, Gabs has played for numerous choral societies, establishing himself as a proficient répétiteur and assistant.
Gabs is often hired to play piano, electronic keyboard, and celesta, contributing significantly to a variety of classical ensembles and musical theatre productions.
Current local engagements include the choral societies of New College, Oxford, Eynsham, Wantage, and Wokingham.
Early Music playing
Including: Basso Continuo on Organ, Harpsichord & Fortepiano
Conducting from the Keyboard
Playing harpsichord with the Accademia del Santo Spirito - Turin Italy 2007 https://www.accademiadelsantospirito.it/
Playing Durufle' Requiem at St Edward's Oxford, with orchestra.
Accompanying a tenor at a wedding reception.
Coaching a soprano singing in Latin
From beginners to world-class musicians.
Watch Gabs accompany international violinist Leia Zhu https://www.leiazhu.info/
Filmed live at the Olivier Hall (Summertown) Oxford in 2022
" [...] We could do Zigeunerweisen again (last time was really fun)!"
Leia Zhu
