Daniel Merrill

Daniel Merrill completed his BA (Hons) in Music in 2002 at Colchester Institute, UK, and holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) from the University of Essex. Since graduating, he has been deeply involved in music education, ranging from leading courses in Popular Music and Music Technology to serving as a Departmental Head in both Elementary and Secondary Schools. His teaching experience spans students from beginner to postgraduate levels, with a focus on cultivating excellence in performance studies, theoretical understanding, and technological skills to help students thrive in all aspects of the contemporary music world.

As a performer and composer, Daniel has gained international recognition. His work with the acclaimed UK folk ensemble Dead Rat Orchestra has taken him across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, receiving praise for its innovative and evocative approach to storytelling through music. Daniel has been awarded numerous national and international grants, including from Arts Council England, the British Council, and the European Cultural Fund, to undertake performance-based research and collaborations. These projects have included extensive partnerships with artists in the Middle East, blending cultural traditions with experimental techniques.

Daniel’s passion for strings has formed a central focus of his creative output, and he has composed, recorded, and produced soundtracks for film and television, including for BBC documentaries. His ability to craft emotionally resonant music has become a hallmark of his work, integrating strings into soundscapes that enhance storytelling and visual narratives. Additionally, he has composed for esteemed ensembles such as the Britten Sinfonia and the London Contemporary Orchestra.

With a career as a session musician and arranger spanning over 30 albums, Daniel brings a wealth of real-world experience to his teaching. Drawing on this rich background, his pedagogy integrates his own creative practice, inspiring students to find their voice, connect with their passions, and develop the confidence to succeed in their musical endeavors.