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Biography
Philip Jones, trumpet artist and founder of the
Philip Jones Brass Ensemble (PJBE) died on January
17, 2000, at the age of 71. Jones was principal
trumpet of six London orchestras during his
career. In 1951, he formed the PJBE, which was
initially a quartet. The world-renowned ensemble
grew to 10 members by 1970 and released 50
recordings. Jones achieved his goal of gaining the
same recognition for brass soloists and ensembles
that had previously been enjoyed by more
traditional solo instruments such as the piano and
violin.
Jones was born into a family of trumpeters on
March 12, 1928, in Bath, England, and was a
scholarship student at the Royal College of Music.
His orchestral years included appointments with
the Royal Philharmonic (1956-60), Philharmonia
(1960-64), London Philharmonic (1964-65), New
Philharmonia (1965-67), and BBC Symphony Orchestra
(1960-71).
In 1986, after accidentally driving his car
over his trumpet case, Jones made the decision to
retire. He continued to teach, accepting a
position at Trinity College of Music, where he
worked until 1994. He also served as chairman of
the musiciansŐ charity fund in 1995, having
worked for the fund throughout his retirement.
Jones was awarded an Order of the British
Empire in 1977 and the Commander of the Order of
British Empire in 1986. He is survived by his
wife, Ursula Strebi.
Sources:
AP, London Guardian, London Times |
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