Having finished his undergraduate studies at the University of Adelaide, Peter Handsworth pursued postgraduate studies at the esteemed Hochschule für Musik in Karlsruhe, Germany. He also finished a PhD in clarinet studies. His successful international career took him to many countries where he performed as a soloist, chamber and orchestral musician, and where he taught at workshops.

For many years, Peter was a Professor of Clarinet at the Hochschule für Musik in Karlsruhe, Germany, before returning to Australia as a Senior Lecturer in Woodwind and Head of the School of Music at Monash University in Melbourne.

He is now the Director of Performance, Music & Events at the Redlands College.