*
banner

Death of John Slinger

The death has been announced of the legendary Black Dyke baritone player John Slinger.

cross
  The death has been announced of former Black Dyke baritone player John Slinger

The death has been announced of the legendary Black Dyke baritone player John Slinger, who passed away on 27th December aged 87.

He began playing aged 13 with Queensbury Modern School Band, before progressing through Black Dyke Juniors to the senior Black Dyke Band in 1946 at the age of 16 alongside his contemporary Geoffrey Whitham.

Peerless

An extremely talented musician, he played a number of instruments during his early years with the band, but is best remembered as being the peerless solo baritone for over 40 years.

He retired in 1990 after helping Black Dyke win the World title in 1970, plus 14 National Championship, ten British Open and seven European titles.

A perceptive and talented arranger, he gained a fine reputation for his work primarily for the famous Black Dyke Octet of the 1950's and 1960's, whilst he was also a member of the Black Dyke Trombone Quartet that won the British Quartet Championship in 1965.

Respect

Black Dyke Band Secretary David Hirst, who played in the band with him during the early 1970s told 4BR that John Slinger was regarded by his fellow players with a reverential respect.

"John was quiet and undemonstrative, but had a remarkable musical intellect and was an outstanding player. Few players have played as long as he did for the band, won as many titles and gained the worldwide respect of the banding community."

Few players have played as long as he did for the band, won as many titles and gained the worldwide respect of the banding communityBlack Dyke Band

Legend

He added: "He had an amazing musical knowledge, backed by a record collection that must have filled his house. John was a Black Dyke legend and is a great loss to the band and to the banding movement. Our condolences go to his widow Brenda at this sad time."

Details of the funereal will be published shortly.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Cory

Last chord for Cory legends

June 30 • The final notes of a decade of unprecedented success have been delivered by Glyn and Helen Williams at Cory Band.


Hepworth

Report & Result: Red Admiral March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • The wizards of Hepworth pick up yet another march and hymn tune victory as they take the inaugural Red Admiral honours.


Crofton

Result: Wetherby Drovers March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • Crofton Silver drive home with the top prize at Wetherby.


Mnozil

Mnozil Brass booked for Symphony Hall in 2027

June 30 • After their memorable performance in Birmingham on the weekend, over 650 tickets have already been snapped up for their 2027 return.


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

Saturday 28 June • St Marys Church, Fratton, Portsmouth PO15PA PO15PA


Petworth Town Band - Fete in the Park with Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Grounds of Petworth Park GU28 9LR


Petworth Town Band - Farnham Brass Band and Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Farnham Carnival


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Billingshurst Carnival

Sunday 29 June • Carnival through Billingshurst and concert at Recreation Ground RH14 9SX


Simon Langton Brass - Deal Memorial Bandstand

Sunday 29 June • The Strand, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DY CT14 7DY


Alder Valley Brass

June 26 • We are looking for BBb bass and soprano cornet players to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023) with a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

June 25 • With a varied upcoming programme of events and following on from our successful "Musicals" concert and first ever trip to Saddleworth for Whit Friday, the band requires an Eb Bass player to join our group.


Alder Valley Brass

June 24 • As a result of a relocation we seek a Musical Director. We are an ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (L&SC, National finalists 2023) with a blend of engagements, concerts and contests. We rehearse 8-10pm on Mondays and Thursdays in Farnham


Rob Nesbitt

BSc, PG Cert. Ed.
Cartoonist , illustrator, writer


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd