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.