SHORT BIOGRAPHY

Alan studied with the composer Sir John Tavener before receiving a scholarship to attend the Royal College of Music in London, and then undertook post-graduate study at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow (supported by the John Mather Scholarship).

He has composed three operas, many large-scale orchestral works (including four concertos), several large choral pieces, as well as many works accessible, and regularly performed, by young and amateur musicians.

NEW VIDEO : July 2020
Below is a video made in lockdown due to Covid 19. Commissioned by Renfrewshire Council for the "Sma' Shot Day" festival.
It's a traditional mill song set to new music by Alan and sung by Stephanie Strachan.

REVIEWS

"a composer that, not only has something to say, but can communicate it in the most eloquent way"
Simon Brint, The Sunday Times

​"music that packs a significant emotional punch" 
Michael Tumelty, Herald Scotland

"a composer with a real sense of what makes music dramatic" 
Lynne Gardner, The Scotsman

"the audience were on their feet giving a well-deserved standing ovation for the work of a musical craftsman"
Steven Laing, Yorkshire Evening Post

"a writer that truly understands what it is to be a musical dramatist for the theatre"
Ned Sherrin, "Loose Ends", BBC Radio 4

Below is a video of "The Goldbergs' Angel" for 2 Violins and Chamber Orchestra (2018)