The death has been announced of the outstanding trombone player, Derek Southcott, aged 72.

He leaves a wife Val and two sons, Robert and Jonathan. He passed away on 21st October.

Baritone to trombone

Born in Hertfordshire in 1946, he was introduced to brass banding by former Black Dyke player Louis Swingler, who was involved with the Crossley Carpets Junior Band in Halifax.

His first instrument with the band was the baritone, then cornet, before finally moving to trombone where he made a name for himself as a teenager on the demanding northern solo contest circuit.

At the age of 16 he became second trombone at Black Dyke — a position he held for eight years flanked by the great Frank Berry, and in 1964 he was the Champion Trombone Player of Great Britain and part of the Champion Quartet.

Following an accident he was offered the opportunity to play in local pit orchestras — the first step in what was to become a remarkable professional music career. He eventually left his job as a draughtsman and became one of the most sought after trombone players of the time.

Professional career

In 1972 he was a founder member of the James Shepherd Versatile Brass ensemble, and later became the principal trombone at the BBC Northern Dance Orchestra — beating 53 other applicants to the role.

His profile and reputation was such that he was approached to play with the famous Syd Lawrence Orchestra — a role he made his own, playing in over 5000 recordings sessions, recordings and CDs.

His versatility as a player — at ease with in any genre of music stood out — as did his ability to perform to the highest standard on any stage — from a local concert to the television studio.

He released his own CD in 1993 and only retired from the group after 22 years outstanding service in 2003.

His profile and reputation was such that he was approached to play with the famous Syd Lawrence Orchestra — a role he made his own, playing in over 5000 recordings sessions, recordings and CDs4BR

Respected

Following his retirement from active playing he became a much respected adjudicator, judging at all levels, including Brass in Concert, the National Championships of Great Britain, National Youth Championships of Great Britain, Butlins, Area and local contests and the Lydgate Whit Friday contest.

Funeral details to be published as soon as they are announced.