4BR has been informed that the funeral of John Slater, the respected former Chairperson of the Midlands Regional Championships committee will take place on Monday 8th April (11.30am) at Matlock Methodist and United Reformed Church, Oak Road, Matlock, Derbyshire (DE4 3FJ).

It will be followed by a short committal service at the crematorium near Alfreton. There will be family flowers only, but if anyone would like to make a donation these can be made via the Funeral Directors Thomas Greatorex & Sons, Matlock (DE4 3BU), or on the day.

John passed away on March 13th.

Brass band life

John began playing cornet with Matlock Junior Band and went on to become a member of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain on bass. He played with many championship level bands, a commitment he balanced with his work as an ambulance officer.

John became secretary of Matlock Band, helping match its administration with its musical rise from Fourth to Championships Section, and securing sponsorship from Tarmac Roadstone as well as organising many memorable trips and tours.

He also took the baton with Ashover Band and later led Matlock Band.

Social side

A spokesperson told 4BR: "The social side of banding was always very important to John, and as well as regularly being the first to the bar, he would often host barbecues at his house and trips to the local curry house.

Matlock were frequently asked to perform on television and to be part of the local community. John was involved with the successful National Lottery funding bids. In later years he returned to playing and became a much valued trustee and active supporter of the band."

They added: "John also conducted Holymoorside Band, his dedication to which was remarkable. He continued to conduct the band until he announced his retirement in February this year, just before being admitted to hospital.

His passing has left a gigantic hole in the band which will be difficult, if not impossible, to fill."

Loyal

Midlands Regional Secretary Lesley Bentley added: "For the past 40 years John had also been a hardworking and loyal member of the Midland Regional Committee. As Chairman John has been a constant guide to the Committee giving his time so willingly to the running of the Regional Contest every year.

As a member of the National Contesting Council, John could also be seen helping and announcing the results at the National Finals."

German friendship

The friendships made by John in the banding world were many, with one such being the Stadtkapelle Sindelfingen in Germany paying their respects by saying: "John's musical journey with us began in 1990, following a visit from the Dronfield Band in Sindelfingen, Germany.

From that moment on, he became an integral part of our orchestra, enriching our performances with his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication.

Year after year, John was a familiar presence at our annual Christmas concerts, where his powerful yet melodious notes brought warmth and joy to audiences. His love for music transcended boundaries, and he actively embraced the twinship between Germany and England, fostering connections and bridging cultures through his passion for music."

They added: "In recognition of his remarkable contributions and deep commitment to our musical community, John was honoured with the title of honorary member of the Stadtkapelle Sindelfingen.

His memory will forever be cherished in our hearts, and though we grieve his passing, we take comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on through the melodies he shared and the lives he touched."