Maddie Stapleton

I have been playing clarinet since I was 8, when I started having lessons at my primary school. I joined the East Riding Junior Windband the following year and at my first concert, I heard the ER percussion ensemble play a Led Zepellin medley and I decided that I wanted to play the drums. Two years later, I started percussion lessons and joined Project Percussion.

I progressed through the ER Schools Music Service ensembles, joining the Senior Windband on the clarinet in 2019 and becoming the principal in 2023. I was asked to play for the ER Youth Orchestra and switch between clarinet, alto saxophone and percussion as well as play for the ER Jazz Ensemble. I’ve had some amazing opportunities with the ER Music Service, including playing at the Royal Albert Hall competing in the finals of the National Music for Youth Festival and going on tour in Jersey and Vienna. In April 2024, I was selected as one of only two ER musicians to play solo in the New Paths Spring Festival in Beverley, working with professional musicians. I am also a member of the National Youth Orchestra Inspire group, which I joined in 2019.

I started Longcroft Sixth Form in Sept 2023 studying History, Criminology and Music A’ levels. During my first year, I passed my Grade 8 clarinet with merit and my Grade 8 tuned percussion with distinction. I am currently working on my clarinet diploma and preparing for university where I’m hoping to read Law in 2025.

I first played with the COHBB after I was asked if I could step in and help out on percussion for the Grand Shield in Blackpool. I loved the experience of playing with the band so much that I decided to stay when they asked.



In addition to my music, I have played badminton for Yorkshire and have competed internationally. I help coach at the local club and play Yorkshire and local league for fun. I’m also a red belt at karate.