A KEIGHLEY-born opera singer who describes the impact of the pandemic on performing arts as “catastrophic” has found a positive from one of the sector’s darkest periods.

Philip Blake-Jones, founder and artistic director of London Festival Opera, has been helping others by staging online singing lessons.

“I am seriously enjoying teaching on Zoom,” says Philip. “It works really well – and I can teach people anywhere in the world!”

Philip was born at the former Victoria Hospital and attended St Anne’s Primary School in Keighley, where he had his first performing role – in a Christmas concert.

He went on to study at the Royal Academy of Music in London.

His career over the years has taken him across the world and he has sung for many distinguished audiences, including members of the royal family.

Philip also takes opera to first-time audiences with his travelling show, A Night at the Opera.

For more details, visit philipblake-jones.com.