The death has been announced of Trevor Austin, the highly respected founder of Rosehill Instruments.

He passed away aged 94 on Tuesday 24th June. He is survived by his wife Christine, daughter Kirsty and sons, Paul and Mark.

Founder

Trevor Austin founded Rosehill Instruments in 1967, which in 1975 established its showroom base in Beaconsfield followed by a number of other locations. He also dedicated much of his time to his charity, the Rosehill Mission.

His professional musical career included playing euphonium in the Royal Horse Guards from 1948 to 1953 as well as being a member of the Rosehill Band of the Salvation Army from 1946 to 1951 — the name of which was used with their blessing for his business.

Strong faith

His strong Christian faith was expressed through dedicated Salvation commitment as well as his dedication to create opportunities for other musicians. He also formed Beaconsfield Brass which he conducted or over half a century and was bandmaster of the Slough Salvation Army Band for nine years.

He founded the British Association of Christian Brass Bands and created one of the first brass band summer schools in 1976.

Rosehill success

Before setting up Rosehill Instruments, Trevor Austin spent 20 years in the construction industry.

The success of Rosehill Instruments was based on his management vision and expertise, as well as a renowned personal approach to customers and business associates that gained the widest possible respect and made it a pillar of the banding movement.

He published both the British Bandsman and Sounding Brass magazines as well music through the Rosehill Music Publishing Company.

Innovative

Always innovative and insightful he ensured Rosehill adapted to the challenges of the quickly changing retailer environment, and even after his 'retirement' he remained as busy as ever with his inspirational work through the Rosehill Mission to support the work of an orphanage and later a nursing school in India.

Other interests filled a busy and fulfilling life — public speaking, acting as a representative of the Bible Society (which involved work as a lay minister), squash, cricket, walking, horse-riding and cycling.

Legacy

His legacy will be continued by his immediate family which includes future generations of five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Support his charity can be made at: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/trevor-austin-rosehill-mission