Tony Tears was born and bred in Carlisle, and after a successful professional career playing saxophone, returned to Carlisle where he was a most influential music teacher. He taught piano and woodwind (flute, clarinet and saxophone) in several schools and privately in North Cumbria.
Affectionately known as ‘Mr T’ by his younger pupils, he was able to pass on his love of music and inspire his pupils to achieve their very best, reaching exceptionally high standards in both their exam results and in competition at the Carlisle Music Festival.