Barry Parsons MD

Barry studied clarinet with Wilfred Kealey at the London College of Music, where he also took up the ’cello. 

After completing his studies, he began teaching both in schools and privately, while simultaneously developing a career as a professional player and soloist.

​During this time, he lived in London and secured principal positions with the Camden Symphony Orchestra and the Ernest Read Symphony Orchestra. He also undertook a recital tour of Germany with the renowned pianist and accompanist Michael Beynon.
In 1984, Barry qualified as a primary school teacher, and in 1988 he moved to Devon to teach in the Exeter area.

It was in 2001, at a concert given by the girls of St Margaret’s School in Exeter Cathedral, that Barry met Stan Hacking. On discovering that Barry was a clarinettist looking for playing opportunities, Stan invited him to attend the next SHCB rehearsal. Although Barry had not played the clarinet for several years, he joined the band on 3rd clarinet and soon rose to the lofty heights of 1st clarinet.

In 2010, Stan was diagnosed with myeloma. Needing to take a break from conducting, he asked Barry to step in. Stan later returned, and for several years the two shared conducting duties. However, in 2016, due to ill health, Stan retired from conducting and passed the baton to Barry.