An Ipswich saxophonist who turned his back on music as a teenager is now playing at celebrity weddings and is hoping to take his music career full-time.
Father of two David Walker, 33, realised his rediscovered passion could be a full time job when England rugby star Danny Care booked him after his fiancée saw videos of him performing.
The wedding was even attended by British royalty Zara Phillips and proved to be a turning point in in Mr Walkers life.
He said: “It was an awesome day - I couldn’t believe I was there. Zara and Mike Tindall were 20 feet away as I played.
“It was a big boost for me. Friends and family started to take my playing more seriously - they could see this as a business.”
Mr Walker explained that music had played a big role as a child - playing drums, double bass and finally the saxophone - before it fell by the wayside in his teenage years.
He added: “When I was in my early teens and going to London Guildhall School of Music on a Saturday I didn’t particularly enjoy it.
“When I stopped playing at the age of 17 I didn’t play an instrument again for nearly ten years.
“When you’re offered £400 for your saxophone all you think about is going out and spending it with your mates.
Then, on his 25th birthday, his mother bought him a brand new saxophone - and Mr Walker says he never looked back.
“I’m so thankful to her. She’s proud that I started playing again and that I’ve taken it on to another level,” he said.
Currently on leave from his customer services day job, Mr Walker is trying to find a way to make his music a full-time occupation.
He added: “My second daughter is only one month old so my wife was pregnant when I took this step.
“It was big - I wanted to see how it went over the summer and I have to say it’s been incredible.
“It’s opened my eyes a lot. To be able to spend more time with my family has had a massive impact.”
Sailmakers Shopping Centre Manager Mike Sorhaindo said: “The acoustic stage was a big hit with our customers last year and we’ve been keen to do it again and having David there will be a real coup.”
The music festival takes place in Salimakers Shopping Centre on September 29 and 30.
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