Campbell first began playing brass instruments at school, and went on to study French Horn at Sydney Conservatorium. After three years playing with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra and Sydney Symphony Orchestra he furthered his studies in Germany, at the end of which he went on to become Solo Horn in several leading European orchestras. Returning to Australia he played 1st Horn with the Australian Opera Orchestra, and taught French Horn at Sydney Conservatorium.
He has tutored at both National Music Camp and at Pan Pacific International Music Camp. Until recently he taught Brass at Orange Regional Conservatorium. Past students occupy positions in orchestras and teaching institutions in Australia and Europe.