Born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand, Joshua discovered his passion for the oboe at the age of ten, captivated by its rich and distinctive tone. At 11, he began learning from former Principal Oboe and Principal Cor Anglais of the Auckland Philharmonia, Martin Lee, who recognised Joshua's natural talent and potential on the instrument.
At 12, Joshua won the top prize in the NZ Woodwind Competition for the intermediate age category. He went on to perform concertos with various ensembles, including the North Shore Youth Orchestra, Aotea Youth Symphony, Westlake Chamber Orchestra, Westlake Symphony Orchestra, and Auckland Youth Orchestra. His repertoire included pieces such as the Haydn Oboe Concerto, the Albinoni Oboe Concerto in D minor and the Vivaldi Concerto for 2 Oboes in D minor. He also won the under-18 award in the Auckland Youth Orchestra soloist competition, playing the Vaughan Williams Oboe Concerto.
Joshua enjoyed success with numerous chamber music groups whilst competing in the NZCT Chamber Music Contest. His achievements in the competition include reaching the national finals and winning the KBB award for best woodwind performance with a rendition of the Malcolm Arnold Suite Bourgeoise and reaching the national semi-finals on Cor Anglais playing the Beethoven Oboe Trio in C major. While receiving tutelage from Martin Lee and Alison Jepson, Joshua also had one-off lessons and masterclasses with Diana Doherty, Alexandre Oguey, Maurice Bourgue, Peter Dykes, Eve Newsome, Bede Hanley, and Camille Wells.
Joshua completed his Bachelor of Music majoring on oboe at the University of Auckland in 2020 under Martin Lee and Robert Orr. He has since played with numerous professional and semi-professional orchestras across New Zealand, such as the Auckland Philharmonia, Hawkes Bay Orchestra, and Opus Orchestra.
In 2025, Joshua is in his second year of training at ANAM, learning from Jeffrey Crellin.
FROM: NZ / Aotearoa.
Josh is supported by an anonymous ANAM Syndicate donor.
Photo by Pia Johnson