Jane Pickles studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama with Peter Lloyd and Trevor Wye, and began her career in Scarborough with Max Jaffa. She went on to work with Welsh National Opera, Scottish Ballet and BBC Northern Ireland orchestras before joining the BBC Radio Orchestra in London as Principal Flute. Jane then joined the BBC Concert Orchestra, where she was frequently a featured soloist.

She has appeared as guest principal with all the major London orchestras and held the post of principal flute in the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra for many years where she was invited to make a solo album featuring the music of Robert Farnon. Jane has also enjoyed tutoring all age groups from 9 years old onwards, both in orchestras and chamber ensembles and nowadays has more time for playing and performing a wide range of chamber music.