Jake benefited greatly from the Suffolk County Music Service which provided him with trumpet lessons from the age of nine and gave him the opportunity to play in many ensembles and orchestras. He played 1st trumpet in the Suffolk Youth Orchestra for several years which included many highly memorable European tours. Jake went on to gain a degree in music from Colchester Institute School Of Music and spent many years playing in various jazz, funk, soul and ska bands.

Jake now runs his own successful recycling business and is deeply grateful for his experiences with Suffolk Youth Music which were fundamental in making him the person he is today. He believes passionately in giving something back and enabling others to benefit as he did, which has lead to him becoming a SMART trustee.