John Fletcher (tubist)

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John Fletcher (1941 - 1987) began his career as a horn player, but switched to the tuba upon his graduation from Pembroke (Cambridge). His father Bernard taught classical music at the school and was a passionate musician. In autumn 1964 he moved to London, where he was accepted as tubist of the BBC Symphony Orchestra. He left the BBC symphony orchestra in 1966 to join the London Symphony Orchestra (LSO). In 1966 he also joined the world-famous Philip Jones Brass Ensemble (PJBE), with whom he played until 1986. During this time "Fletch" – as his friends called him – became a legend. As a member of the LSO and the Philip Jones Brass ensemble, as well as teacher for master classes, he amazed the whole world and his virtuoso and technically brilliant tuba playing inspired all generations.

He was also an excellent teacher and taught one of the greatest living English tubists Patrick Harrild, who took over John's position as principal tuba at the LSO.

In the year 1967 he married a mezzo-soprano singer named Margaret, and together they had a daughter and a son. In March 1987 John suffered a massive cerebral haemorrhage, and died that October.

[edit] John Fletcher trust fund

This was set up in the memory of John Fletcher to provide bursaries for impecunious young brass players to attend the courses run by the National Youth Orchestra, National Youth Brass band and other training centres.

[edit] Discography

The Best of Fletch - John Fletcher (Tuba), 1988 (edited by Tony Faulkner)

Many of London's finest tuba players, several of who were taught by Fletcher, produced a CD in recognition of his wonderful talent;

• Tuba Tribute to Fletch

[edit] References

• IPEA website International Tuba-Euphonium Association, Committees and Lifetime Achievement members
• John Fletcher trust website Information on the trust