Announcing Music Mark’s New Trustees

We recently opened a call out for members to apply to join our Board of Trustees in two elected positions. 10 candidates applied and stood for election, and the two candidates with the highest number of votes from our members have now been appointed as elected trustees at our AGM on 6th November 2025. Thank you to all of the candidates who put themselves forward for the election, and congratulations to our new trustees, Philip Flood and John Callister! 

Philip Flood 

Why did you apply to join the Board of Trustees?  

Having recently concluded nearly 15 years with Sound Connections, I am now able to dedicate my time, experience, and passion to serving as a Trustee at Music Mark. As an independent freelancer, I am committed to championing a broad and inclusive approach to music education and amplifying diverse voices within the membership. With a strong track record as a collaborator and broker, I can help navigate the complex challenges now facing music education across the UK. I am eager to contribute strategically to ensure access, equity, and opportunity for all. 

What skills and experience are you bringing to the Board? 

I bring over 30 years’ expertise in business planning, strategic development, fundraising, and organisational change across the music and arts sectors to this role at Music Mark. A passionate advocate for music education, I combine a deep understanding of the sector with strong leadership and mentoring skills. Previously Director at Sound Connections, following senior roles at the LSO and Spitalfields Music, I am now a freelance consultant. Clients include London Music Fund, Paraorchestra, Rocksteady, and Royal Albert Hall. I am an accredited Executive Coach, a Mental Health First Aider, and currently Chair and Non-Executive Director at Printed Music Licensing Limited. 

John Callister 

Why did you apply to join the Board of Trustees? 

Through a decade of challenge, and the recent transition and restructuring across the sector, Music Mark has been a constant support and advocate for colleagues and our organisations. Change is set to continue, and after 12 years as a Head of Service, I would like to give time back to our membership organisation so that it can continue to provide this invaluable role. I would like to help champion the essential role that music services play within the sector, and the support they need to thrive as Music Hub partnerships continue to develop. 

What skills and experience are you bringing to the Board? 

I have been Head of Music Service in Staffordshire since 2013, during which time our Music Hub, The Music Partnership, has expanded to cover four local authority areas involving music services, charities, local authorities and a range of commercial, industry and individual partner organisations. We have several programmes and funders, and this has given me a strong understanding of the sector, the models within it, and the tensions and delicate balance that many colleagues are operating within. My background is as a brass player (trombone) and qualified teacher, having worked as a freelance musician prior to joining Staffordshire in 2009. 

We look forward to working with the refreshed Board of Trustees in the future.