Philip has a very rare gift of communication. I've heard his quartet colleagues discuss it, but I've also experienced it myself, both in the apprentice sessions at the Variations week in Ullapool, as well as in chamber music sessions where he's been the coach.  

He can hold a group together without saying a word.  As a coach and as a teacher he's also very good at focussing on what it's possible to improve - in one's playing or in ensemble music - so that amateur musicians can push their own boundaries further.  

He finds something to praise and encourage in a way that feels very sincere, and he makes you want to go on and work harder in music.  And then he shows you how you can.

Patricia Samson