May Halyburton studied double bass at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama. On graduating in 1994 with a BA (musical studies), a Certificate of Post Graduate Studies and the Eugene Cruft Prize for double bass, she took up the post of sub principal bass with Orquestra Simfonica de Balears, de Mallorca.

Since returning to Scotland, she has freelanced extensively throughout the UK as an orchestral and chamber musician. May has a very eclectic taste in music and also regularly performs and records with a variety of ensembles, groups and bands, covering a wide range of genres and styles.

May is a highly sought after teacher and works with students of all ages and stages, with a special interest in mini bass tuition. She is the creator and author of the children’s books with music composers, “Around the World with Bessy.” which strives to sow the seed of curiosity about the wonderful world of music in the minds of nursery and primary school aged children, leading from the double bass.

Bessy Sings…at Halloween by May Halyburton is a suite of three engaging and exciting pieces for the beginner double bass and piano. ‘Waltzing Witches’ remains… in 1st position also introducing col legno and Bartók pizzicato contrasting a spooky ‘Haunting Harmonics’ which employs different effects to create mood music and an exciting and dark sound world. ‘Pumpkin Parade’ also includes a part for open strings and is a lively and jazzy conclusion to a fun and entertaining suite. Bessy Bass is a young double bass from Scotland who loves to travel and have adventures with other musical instrument family and friends. As the central character in the “Around the World with Bessy” series of children’s stories with music, Bessy learns a little about the language, culture and of course, the music of each destination she visits, as well as the importance of friendship, kindness and inclusion. Through her books and spin-off show and workshops, Bessy aims to sow the see of curiosity about the wonderful world of music in the minds of her young readers, with the hope that they might even be inspired to find their musical instrument. Bessy has been very fortunate to collaborate with some fantastic musicians in the performances of her workshops and shows, as well as in a variety of spin-off projects. Her author, May Halyburton, also a highly sought after double bass teacher, was inspired by David Heyes to write some pieces herself. She is excited to collaborate with Recital Music and contribute to its ever increasing catalogue with a series of short, themed pieces for the beginner double bassist called “Bessy Sings…”