A native of South Australia, Daniel grew up in the Adelaide Hills and attended Pembroke School where he began his study of the clarinet and saxophone.
In 1995 the Pembroke Stage Band was honoured with an invitation to accompany Aussie jazz legend Don Burrows at the Monterrey Jazz Festival.
This was an important moment for the 15-year-old Daniel, who developed an admiration for Burrows’ improvisational skill and ability to switch effortlessly between different woodwind instruments.
After completing his International Baccalaureate Diploma, Daniel studied jazz at Adelaide University and began working in local jazz/funk bands and theatre productions.
In 2003 he took a gig with Royal Caribbean International, which lead to several years of working on cabaret shows and swing or rock-themed dance functions on holiday cruise liners. During this time, Daniel also took up the flute and piccolo.
Daniel returned to Adelaide in 2008, when he was unfortunately sidelined for a period by a spinal injury. During his gradual recovery he learnt the art of didgeridoo making from a local indigenous craftsman, and spent time as the musical director of the Corner Pocket Big Band.
2011 saw Daniel return to full fitness and regular gigging, including an appearance at the Adelaide ‘Cello Festival with the Elder Conservatorium Symphony Orchestra and a season with a local production of Miss Saigon.
Daniel is very excited to be rejoining many of his former bandmates (he played and toured with Unitopia in 2011-12), lending his unique sound to United Progessive Fraternity.
He is currently listening to: Chick Corea (esp. Return to Forever/Electric Band), Herbie Hancock, Paquito D’Rivera, Jan Garbarek, Mike Stern, Marcus Miller, Frank Zappa, Michael Brecker, Loreena McKennit, John Coltrane, Bela Fleck, John Scofield, Chris Potter and Kenny Garrett.