Gemma's introduction to Brass was at the age of 11 during her first term at Woodford Lodge High School, Winsford, Cheshire. After trying a Cornet and Euphonium, she was selected a Bb Baritone from the schools instrument store. By Christmas she was still showing interest so her Parents decided to purchase a better quality instrument which proved a lot easier to play and no more dodgy valves!

She started playing in the School Wind Band and also joined the junior band for Lions Youth Brass, based in Crewe. When she became a more accomplished player she moved up to the main Lions Youth Brass and spent an enjoyable few years playing 2^nd Baritone, later to become their 1^st Baritone player. During this time, the Band became National Youth Champions in 1994 and again in 1995. This lead to a number of South Coast Tours, one of which was the seaside town of Margate! from which Cantium derives its former title "Margate Silver Band".

At the age of 15, she started playing for the North West Championship Section Band, Roberts Bakery and juggled playing for two bands whilst still studying at school until she went away to York University to study chemistry.

At York, banding took a back seat to studying and social life.

After graduating in 1999, she secured a job in Sandwich and after settling into life in Kent, found Cantium Brass on the web. She has been playing with them ever since.