Committee and Trustees

Dave 'Dogfish' Colclough

Chair & Events Manager

I have had jobs in the past including working in the building trade,working in a gym and as a DJ, before retraining as a massage therapist and achieving qualifications in counselling.  Some of you might know me as the current editor of Harmonica World.  I play mostly diatonic in all styles of music, although I play the big one with the button occasionally!

I have been told I have a  cheeky sense of humour and I love sea fishing, music and socialising

Simon Joy

Secretary/Vice-Chair

As the only tremolo player on the committee, Simon is carrying the torch for all the members who play tremolo and double reed instruments. He is using his background of working in health and social care to oversee HarmonicaUK’s commitment to safeguarding and managing risk. He looks forward to meeting members and playing some tunes together. 

Darren Lampon

Treasurer

I am an accountant, mostly working in manufacturing, although never actually getting my hands dirty, there is something great about creating something tangible. I can’t do it, but I can help.

I played the guitar in bands for many years in the Midlands but have not been involved in making music for a very long time. Realising I wanted something more vocal, I decided on the diatomic harmonica in 2021. I do not like a specific style of music but enjoy the more chordal playing styles requiring 100% tongue blocking.

Suzy Colclough

Vice-Chair (Accessibility/Communications)

I’m a fun-loving, happy person with a caring nature.  Before I lost my sight at the age of 24, I worked for Barclays Bank.  Following this, I trained for seven years in numerous therapies, which resulted in my being a holistic therapist, treating mind and body.

I love playing the chromatic harmonica as well as walking with my guide dog, socialising and attending live music events.  I’m also a prolific reader.

Gene Myers

Editor, IT Support

When I was 16,  I saw James Cotton perform for the first time in Connecticut at a renowned blues club, and soon after bought a copy of the classic Folkways instructional album, Blues Harp. Within  a few days I learned to bend notes. Throughout my life and careers, I’ve had a close relationship with and keen interest in music. I was a photographer and printmaker during my first 38 years, and during the second half of my life, a Software professional. I’ve founded a few companies; the first developed a music festival app. I’m currently the Chief Technical Officer and Director at Wyld Networks, specialising in Satellite IoT. In the last couple of years I’ve started playing the harmonica again, and helping out at events for HarmonicaUK.

Richard Taylor

Outreach

Richard joined the NHL in the 1980's and is a former jazz harmonica champion. By day, Richard manages Harp Academy, teaching harmonica to children 4-11 years. Richard is also Producer of Harpin' By The Sea, Brighton's annual harmonica festival, and runs workshops for adult players. By night Richard fronts The Blackjacks, playing blues with a Louisiana twist. 

Andrew Hardy

Without Portfolio

I am a qualified accountant and have practised as such for the last 30 years.  Not much opportunity for making music in that profession although occasionally clients sing for joy when I save them a bit of tax.  I have always been interested in music and took up a few courses with Ben Hewlett, and from this developed my interest in the underrated harmonica.  Love all styles but am especially interested in Zydeco and classical genres as the instrument is so expressive. 

Editorial team

• Dave Colclough - editor
• Steve Pardue - design
• Pip Phillips - advertising
• Rowena Millar - sub editing
• Jim Watkins - proof reading

Newsdesk team

• Susy Colclough
• Dave Colclough
• Jo Elms
• Joe French
• Gary Newman

Specialist support

• Roger Trobridge - archivist
• Barry Elms - webmaster
• Dick Powell - education
• Rollen Flood - health
• Mike Netherton - health and safety advice