University News Last updated 10 January
Head of Brass Ed Jones has performed with most of the UK’s professional orchestras on a freelance basis and understands the importance of a balanced and relevant education, as preparation for the professional world of music-making. Ed aspires to a nationally and internationally renowned department that provides a friendly and supportive environment in which our students can thrive.
What are the core skills or areas of expertise that you bring to RBC?
I understand what it takes to succeed as a brass player in the competitive world of professional music-making. Before taking on my current role as Head of Brass, I was Section Leader Trombone of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra and also a member of the Birmingham Contemporary Music Group. I have been fortunate enough to perform with most of the UK’s professional orchestras on a freelance basis, as well as being a member of a number of successful chamber ensembles.
Before becoming Head of Brass, I was a Visiting Tutor of Trombone at RBC for 15 years, so I have a good understanding of the kinds of challenges that our students tend to encounter. I also have a longstanding interest in psychology, personal development and wellbeing; all of which helps enormously with the pastoral side of my role.
What have been your highlights since you started at RBC?
I always feel great pride when I hear RBC brass players perform. I consider it a key part of my role to ensure that students enjoy participating in exciting, uplifting concerts that they will remember long after they’ve graduated. The buzz around the Bradshaw Hall during the RBC Symphony Orchestra’s performance of Respighi’s Pines of Rome last summer will live long in the memory!
What have been the most challenging issues that you’ve had to discuss and take a view on so far?
The landscape of professional music continues to evolve at a rapid pace. It’s therefore a constant challenge to ensure that we are giving our students an appropriately balanced and relevant education. RBC’s brass players must be provided with a solid, classical grounding in symphonic performance, but we would also like our students to develop a basic proficiency across a diverse range of musical styles, so that they have as many tools in their armoury as possible when they graduate.
What are your ambitions for RBC?
I would like the Brass Department to be renowned nationally and internationally, not just for the brilliance of our graduates’ musicianship, but also for the friendly and supportive environment in which our students learn their trade.
What do you to outside of the role when you are not working?
I am a passionate - if jaded - supporter of Everton Football Club. I also have two young sons, so most of my weekend is taken up playing the role of taxi driver as we travel to football, tennis, swimming, etc. As a stereotypical brass player, I do also enjoy a visit to the pub, when time allows!