Edward studied Music at the University of Birmingham; as an undergraduate his performance activities focused on the double bass. He branched out during his postgraduate studies, studying the viol with Alison Crum but also gaining valuable experience conducting local orchestras. After completing his PhD, Edward joined the Music Department at Lancaster University as a Lecturer in Music, where his responsibilities included the direction of the department Chamber Orchestra and New Music Ensemble. Whilst at Lancaster, he began private conducting lessons with Ed Warren, and in 2003 was awarded an LRSM in Directing (Chamber Orchestra).
During his time at Lancaster, he also conducted local choirs and new music groups, his repertoire ranging from small chamber ensembles through to works for choir and orchestra. Edward continued to conduct after joining the School of Music at Leeds in 2013, where he is currently Associate Professor.