When the London International Piano Competition arranged "Meet the Music Makers" in 2005, Stephen ran an excellent, thought-provoking workshop for a group of GSCE and A level music students on music criticism. He related very well to the students and was informal without ever being patronising. He brought a good range of practical activities for them to do, which really got them all talking and thinking.

Julia Roth
Organiser, London International Piano Competition Meet the Music Makers Project

Stephen is one of my favourite journalists of the many I've encountered around the world. In the five years I've know him he's written several sleeve notes for my CD label Avie, and numerous articles and reviews for various publications about our artists. He's serious and he knows his stuff, but what I particularly like is how he combines erudition with a fervent sense of humanity. His writing is by turns witty and informative, passionate and soulful. Read him and you'll feel an experience gained.

Melanne Mueller
Managing Director, Avie Records

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra was pleased to engage Stephen Pettitt for writing the literature for the orchestra's anniversary CD and other anniversary publications. He interviewed our musicians and staff with empathy and skill, researched diligently, and produced excellent copy. Stephen was very easy to work with, taking on board and offering suggestions with sound judgement and tact. We look forward to working with him again.

Chris Evans
Press and Publicity Officer, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

Stephen Pettitt's wide ranging musical knowledge has been invaluable on Royal Philharmonic Society Awards Juries over a number of years. Most recently he has been Chairman of our Instrumentalist Award which he has steered with even-handed diplomacy.

Rosemary Johnson
Administrator, Royal Philharmonic Society

Stephen displayed a fine balance between sensitivity and keen musical discernment as adjudicator for the Finals of the House Music Competition at Lancing College.  He delivered his guidance to the young performers not only with the expected weight of his many years’ experience but also with good humour and a sense of absolute pleasure.

Ian Morgan-Williams
Director of Music, Lancing College, West Sussex