Inspiring a mindstate for true creative thinking.
Music as a vocation
A natural educator
A Bassist/songwriter who has been working in the field of education since 1989. I developed my skills as an educator initially as a bass tutor, then since 2006 I have lectured at college and university level including running workshops and masterclasses in the UK, Ireland, and Germany at institutions: Royal College of Music Manchester, Goldsmiths University, BIMM Manchester, Brighton, Bristol, Dublin, London, ICMP (The Institute), London College of Contemporary Music (LCCM) I currently teach bass at Trinity Laban Conservatoire
In 1990 I began session work playing bass for an eclectic list of artists including Paul Weller, Marcella Detroit, Desert Eagle Discs, Gabrielle, Robbie Williams, BB King, Eric Clapton, Roger Daltrey, Van Morrison, Mick Jagger and recording for Michael Jackson with Jermaine Jackson producing. Work continued after the birth of my 3rd child in 2006 which included performances with with Anastasia, Lulu, Heather Small, Natasha Bedingfield, Sinead O’Connor and Daryl Hall.
As well as releasing albums on my record label Groove4dayz Records, I became Musical Director for Dave Stewart’s band and began working with film composer Hans Zimmer beginning with London concerts, European & world tours followed 2014 – to date. The scope of my work has also included work on various film soundtracks: “A Knight’s Tale” “Alfie” “Home” “War on Everyone”, ”The Lion King, “Boss Baby’ I & II & DUNE.
In 2017 I joined British band Squeeze, recording the last album “The Knowledge” touring in the UK and US throughout 2017 – 2020
In 2018 I broadened the scope of my work by accepting engagements with Laura Mvula, Mercury Award nominee Eska, Pianist Tomasz Bura’s Jazz Fusion quartet and as part of the Brian Jackson trio UK Band (Gil Scott-Heron co-writer).
In 2020 I was awarded an MBE (Member Of The Most Excellent Order Of The British Empire) “for services to music” as a performer and educator.
My future plans include writing for new creative projects including with my band PROJECT PH and I will continue to tour with Hans Zimmer Live with dates planned for 2022 and 2023. I also run a new twitch.tv channel hosting my own show interviewing veteran musicians and showcasing young musicians to open conversation up around wider issues affecting the music business as well as offering insight and industry tips.
Mentoring as a music industry professional
“Yolanda’s style allows me to approach my musicianship in the broadest sense. We discuss technique, styles, approaches and industry in a way that is unique and yet necessary if you want to understand music as a career. With Yolanda I can develop my voice and pinpoint what I want out of music, therefore allowing me to pursue goals and practice in a way that fulfils me creatively.” Kyle 17
As a mentor I have a number of clients age ranging from young adults to music business professionals. Although currently my work has been online in hourly sessions, as well as mentoring instrumentalists advising on career paths and musicianship, I have also connected young musicians to the wider community through jam sessions I host in London’s Soho. Clients can network with an invited list of attendees as well as perform to members of the public also in attendance.
“ From the moment I met Yolanda, I immediately felt her energy filled with knowledge, experience and understanding. There is a sense of comfort and trust when around Yolanda, which makes it easy to ask any questions or discuss whatever the topic together. Whether you are just starting, been around for a little while or a professional musician, Yolanda never fails to connect, providing the best support on your journey " - Alex
How do you find your unique path?
My consultancy is tailored to each client and based upon their unique requirements. This can range from conversation to inspire thinking – including processes to help nurture a clear path towards decision making led by the clients themselves, and in-person instrument coaching using techniques to develop musicianship and communication as a performer.
I feel that it’s very important to help a client understand as many of the factors involved in each decision making process so that they are not specifically advised directionally, but instead has been equipped with the tools necessary to allow sense making around each specific issue or event. I understand that it is important the client is always in control of their own choices arriving at solutions aided, but not overly instructed.
Please use the contact form to get in touch with me if you would like to arrange either mentoring or consultation sessions!