Jonathan Pippen

JONATHAN PIPPEN began playing the trombone at the age of 7 at his junior school in Gwent, South Wales. He became a member of all the youth ensembles that were offered by the music support service in Gwent which, led to him becoming principal trombone of the National Youth Orchestra and Brass band of Wales.

During this time Jonathan also enjoyed the local brass band scene in South Wales playing for numerous lower section bands before becoming Principal Trombone with Ebbw Vale town Band at age 13. At 15 Jonathan was appointed principal trombone with the BTM band.

In 1997 Jonathan auditioned and won a foundation scholarship to study at the Royal college of Music in London where he studied under Arthur Wilson. During his first year at the college Jonathan was appointed principal trombone with the Brighouse and Rastrick band and subsequently transferred to the Royal Northern College in order to carry on with studies as well as enjoy the new position. Jonathan was taught by Andrew Berryman at the RNCM. Jonathan attained a ARCM Hons in summer 1998.

In December 1998 Jonathan made his professional debut with the Hallé Orchestra. Between this time and the present day Jonathan has appeared with some of the countries finest orchestras including the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, BBC Philharmonic, Philharmonia Orchestra, English National Opera, Opera North, BBC National Orchestra of Wales and BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra to highlight a few.

In June 2000 Jonathan was appointed, Principal Trombone with the Remix Ensemble, based in Portugal. Jonathan managed to balance his new position in Portugal with his final year of a degree course at the RNCM passing a BA with Credit in Performance.

In December 2002 Jonathan resigned his position with the Remix ensemble to dedicate his time to a freelance career in the UK. Jonathan is involved in the brass band scene, currently playing principal trombone with BTM Band.

Jonathan was featured recently as the soloist for a "Listen to the Band" broadcast, and played variations on Carnival of Venice arranged for Simon Kerwin. Click here to read the review.

Jonathan now cuts a dash in uniform as a member of the RAF Central Band and is currently "on trial" for the principal trombone position with Opera North.