The death has been announced of former GUS Band trombonist Terry Hext.
The death has been announced of Terry Hext, aged 81, who passed away peacefully on 15th September following a long battle with pulmonary sarcoidosis. He is survived by Marion, his wife of 58 years, and sons, Michael and David.
Brass and jazz
Born in south Wales in 1937, he learnt to play the trombone through his local brass band and soon progressed to the Oakdale Colliery Band. He also enjoyed playing jazz by listening and playing along to Chris Barber records.
He later joined the Loyal North Lancashire regiment and was sent to the Royal Military School of Music, where he met his wife Marion. He trained further at the Royal College of Music before finishing his military career in the Coldstream Guards.
Champion soloist
Following this period he joined the Luton Band and went on to win the title of Trombone Solo Champion of Great Britain two years running, before moving to play with the GUS Band. He also became a member of the Virtuosi Band of Great Britain.
Terry became Head of Brass Teaching in Bedfordshire and eventually left GUS Band to become MD of Bedford Town Band, who he led from the Fourth Section to Championship status.
In addition, he conducted the County Youth Brass Band and Concert Band, and also formed the Kempston Concert Band. In 1988, he and Marion formed Bedford Brass, which still thrives to this day.
Following this period he joined the Luton Band and went on to win the title of Trombone Solo Champion of Great Britain two years running, before moving to play with the GUS Band4BR
Legendary teacher
His reputation as a teacher was legendary — helping inspire countless youngsters and adults to enjoy music making.
Terry also opened Tema Music shop which he managed with his wife and an able group of workers. Some years ago he happily retired from his music and the shop, played some golf, then bowls, and loved to follow his passion for rugby.
A JustGiving page that we have set-up in his memory: https://www.justgiving.com/David-Hext
