On graduating in 1994 from the Royal Northern College of Music, Laura joined the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra as sub-principal flute. During her time there, she worked with many eminent conductors, made numerous recordings, and performed as a soloist with the orchestra, as well as giving flute recitals throughout the country and abroad.

Laura studied conducting with Vernon Handley and subsequently worked with the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, the Hallè and Manchester Camerata. She has recorded three 3 CDs with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic. In 2002 Laura left the "Phil" to pursue a career combining flute, conducting, teaching and adjudicating.

She is Flute Tutor at the Royal Northern College of Music and in 2005 was appointed Acting Head of Woodwind at Chetham’s School of Music in Manchester. Laura regularly gives classes at both the RNCM and Chetham’s, and coaches various ensembles and assesses the students throughout the Wind and Percussion departments of both establishments.

Laura still guests as Principal Flute with all the major British Orchestras, including the BBC Symphony and Philharmonic Orchestras, The Hallè and the Northern Sinfonia. She has performed as soloist with the BBC Concert Orchestra, City of London Sinfonia and the RLPO. With her ensemble "The Abruzzi Trio" who are currently "Selected Artists" in the Making Music scheme, she gives recitals and educational performances throughout the country.

Laura was appointed Music Director of the Cheshire Youth Orchestra in 2001.

Mairearad Bushnell-Wye – Conductor: CYTO

Mairearad first studied music at Napier College in Edinburgh before going on to study at the Royal College of Music. She graduated in 1982 with an honours degree and an A.R.C.M. in clarinet teaching and continued at the College for a further year of advanced performing study. For several years she taught and played professionally in and around London before moving to Cheshire with her husband.