Samuel is 17 years old has been learning violin since he was 9. He has obtained Grade 8 violin with distinction with a mark of 94/100 and is studying with the renowned Karla Norton in Wellington. He is a long-standing member of the Marlborough Civic Orchestra. He developed an interest in jazz violin and attended Southern Jam where he was awarded the Massey University Conservatorium of Music Award for Most Outstanding Musician on a Non-Traditional Jazz Instrument. He also passed his Grade 5 Theory with Distinction and NCEA Level 3 Music endorsed with Merit. He has found time to teach violin where he enjoys sharing his learned knowledge with others. His sights are set on completing a double degree in Arts and Engineering and furthering his study at the Trinity College in Dublin.