4BR has been informed of the death of the highly respected trombone player Stan Willis, who passed away on Saturday 13th July.

ISB and RAF service

Born into a Salvationist family in South London, he was taught by Cyril Brisley and enjoyed the privilege of playing alongside him in the International Staff Band of the Salvation Army along with his cousin Bernard Adams.

Following war time service in the RAF he went on to play with Watford, Hanwell, Munn & Felton and Ferodo Works, where conductor George Hespe wrote the trombone solo ‘Melodie et Caprice’ for him.

Conductor

He later took up conducting with Hamworthy Engineering, Southampton Albion Crewkerne, Wimborne, Crystal Palace and Hillingdon bands, enjoying a great deal of success.

He was a member of the Munn & Felton quartet that became Champions of Great Britain, as well as winning the individual trombone prize no less than five times. He was runner-up at the Festival of Britain Championships in 1952.

He was a member of the Munn & Felton quartet that became Champions of Great Britain, as well as winning the individual trombone prize no less than five times4BR

Father and son

In 1986 he enjoyed playing with his son Barry, who joined him in the trombone section of Solent Concert Brass when the band was runner-up at the Grand Shield and later that year played at the British Open Championship.

He will be remembered for his fine playing, especially on the solo feature, ‘Angels Guard Thee’. He was a fine teacher and fine inspiration to many.