Linton Wesley Stephens was born in Chester and grew up on the Wirral. He began playing the Bassoon at the age of 16. He is the sub-principal bassoon with Chineke! Orchestra with whom he has performed at the proms and Wigmore hall. He also enjoys varied freelance career. Recent appearances include BBC Philharmonic, Hallé Orchestra, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, Clonter Opera, Opera North, European Opera Centre, Northern Chamber Orchestra, English National Ballet, and the South Pacific tour. A passionate advocate for music education and equality within the industry; he regularly runs workshops and coaches ensembles for young musicians throughout the country as well holding a seat on the board for the Musicians Union equality committee.

This interview was conducted on 6th December 2019 at St Paul's Cathedral by Ed Walker at Deconstructing Empire: The Great British Fantasy? as part of the Poet in the City Producers programme.