Clive started playing the cornet with Coleford Town Band at the age of 8, under the late Evan Jones. Two years later he moved to the Bream Silver Band and became principal cornet by the age of 12. At the age of 18, he also became principal cornet with the Royal Engineers TA Band in Monmouth. In 1970, Clive moved up to the Championship section, joining Yorkley Onward Band under Graham Watkins and Brian Howard. During this time, Clive helped form, and conducted the training band “Yorkley Concert Band”. The band had a large number of engagements and typically averaged 35 members. In 1982, Clive joined the Cinderford Band as a front row cornet player and has been a dedicated member ever since. At the same time he decided to progress his conducting career, moving to Drybrook Band as musical director which turned out to be a successful era, with the Band competing in the National Championships.