Stuart is based in Ballymena, Northern Ireland, where he balances a demanding schedule of peripatetic teaching, accompanying, performing, and examining.
After graduating from Queens University Belfast, Stuart began his career teaching vocal and instrumental music at an international school in Papua New Guinea from 2011 to 2013. Upon returning to Northern Ireland, he became the Director of Music and organist at High Kirk Presbyterian Church, a position he held for six years. In 2017, Stuart joined the peripatetic music staff at Ballymena Academy (Grammar), where he teaches piano and singing, and accompanies students for exams and public performances. In October 2019, Stuart became a Trinity Classical, Jazz and Diploma music examiner, and in March 2021, he assumed the role of Director of Music at Harryville Presbyterian Church. In September 2024, he will join the peripatetic music staff at Ballyclare High School (Grammar).
As a performer, Stuart has showcased his talents on BBC One, Channel 4, BBC Radio 3, and BBC Radio Ulster. He has also served as an accompanist for various institutions, including Ulster University, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, Ballymena Festival of Music, Speech and Dance, the Abbey Singers, and Cambridge House Grammar School.
A keen advocate for local festivals, Stuart sits on the executive committee of the Ballymena Festival of Music, Speech and Dance, a festival affiliated with the British and International Federation of Festivals which receives over 3,000 entries each year. He also serves as the festival's webmaster. In March 2022, Stuart was elected to the governing body of the Incorporated Society of Musicians, a UK organisation with over 11,000 members, where he will represent professional musicians across Northern Ireland and Scotland until March 2025.
