Our Conductor
Jonathan Pippen
Jonathan began to the learn the trombone at age 7, by 15 he was principal trombone of the BTM Band and shortly after the National Youth Orchestra and Brass Band of Wales. Since then, playing highlights have included being appointed as principal trombone of the Brighouse and Rastrick band holding the National, European and the All England Masters titles in 1998. He has been principal trombone with the Remix Ensemble Casa da and guest principal with most UK orchestras including the Halle, Philharmonia, English National Opera and BBC National Orchestra of Wales. In 2007 Jonathan joined the Central Band of the Royal Air Force where he played and conducted until 2015. He continued to deputise outside of work as often as possible with various professional ensembles and orchestras and was principal trombone of the Desford Colliery Band.
As a soloist Jonathan has featured on the BBC Listen to the Band programme, was soloist on the 2015 Gavin Higgins and Tredegar band award winning album ‘Dark Arteries’ and has been guest soloist with various ensembles including the National Youth Orchestra of Wales.
Jonathan has conducted recording sessions with the English Session Orchestra, West One Music and Sony, a tour to Vietnam with the Desford Colliery Band and was assistant Musical Director and 1st trombone for the Cameron Macintosh production of Half a Sixpence in London’s West End.
He is Professor of trombone at the London College of Music, Head of trombone studies for the British Army and is an examiner for the online music exam board MTB.