William Stafford began his musical studies at Manchester University and the Royal Northern College of Music. After receiving the RNCM ’s Gold Medal in 2008, the college’s highest and most prestigious award for performance, he went on to study at the Royal College of Music, London, where he graduated with distinction.

Stafford has appeared as Guest Principal Clarinet with the London Symphony Orchestra, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, English National Opera, BBC Philharmonic Orchestra, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Northern Sinfonia and Ulster Orchestra. In 2011, he was appointed Sub Principal Clarinet with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra.

Stafford has enjoyed collaborations with artists including Maurice Bourgue, Sergio Azzolini, Richard Watkins and Michael Collins. He has performed chamber music with the Eidos Trio at the Wigmore Hall, and, as a member of the Countess of Munster Recital Scheme, has given recitals at music clubs all over the UK. Stafford was appointed Sub Principal Clarinet with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra in August 2011.