4BR has been informed of the death of Martyn Rice, aged 71, at his home close to Perpignon in France.
Proud
A proud Cornishman, Martyn started his banding career with the Mount Charles Band before moving to London to study the cornet, together with his other love, the organ.
During his long career teaching music, Martyn formed and directed the Fullwell Band, mainly comprising of current and former school pupils in Essex and also played the repiano for the Newham Band during Ray Farr's tenure in the late 1970's, keeping a keen interest in their championship progress thereafter.
Supporter
A regular supporter of the National Championships, Martyn last travelled to the Royal Albert Hall from the South of France in 2011. He is survived by his mother, Betty White, and his two sisters, Pat and Gill.
A regular supporter of the National Championships, Martyn last travelled to the Royal Albert Hall from the South of France in 20114BR
Service
Friends and former band colleagues are invited to attend a memorial service for Martyn on Saturday 24th November in the parish church of St Blazey Gate, Par, Cornwall at 11.00am.