4BR has been informed of the death of Ernie Wedgwood, aged 90.

One of the foremost soprano players of his generation, he was a life long bandsman who continued playing and supporting the brass band movement until just a few weeks ago.

Fairey role

Ernie’s career started with the Silverdale Band, but at the age of 19 Harry Mortimer invited him to the Fairey Aviation works band on repiano. He took over as soprano player the following year, just a few weeks before the National Finals at the Albert Hall.

He stayed at Faireys for some 13 years before moving to Ferodo and later Clayton Aniline Works bands, in a career which featured numerous National and Open titles, recordings, broadcasts and tours.

The last 20 years of his working life were spent as a dedicated brass teacher inspiring hundreds of young people, many of whom still play with some of the top bands and orchestras in the country4BR

Conducting

When he stepped down from playing at the highest level he began a very successful conducting career, firstly with the Reddish Band and then for over 20 years with the Christ Church Silver Band in Manchester.

The last 20 years of his working life were spent as a dedicated brass teacher inspiring hundreds of young people, many of whom still play with some of the top bands and orchestras in the country. He also conducted youth bands in both Yorkshire and Lancashire.

Soprano love

In the latter years of his life he retained his love of playing soprano, still practising at least an hour a day and playing for the Salvation Army Fellowship Band.

Funeral details

His funeral will take place on Wednesday 16th February at 10:30, at Dewsbury Crematorium. Ever the pragmatist he wanted no flowers, preferring donations to be made to the Salvation Army or the PDSA.

Similarly he would not have wanted those who knew him to grieve at his passing but rather to celebrate a wonderful man and a wonderful life in banding.