Who was John Wallace and what was he famous for?

John Wallace was a virtuoso Scottish trumpeter known for accompanying Kiri te Kanawa at the 1981 royal wedding and founding the Wallace Collection.

What significant role did John Wallace play in music education?

Wallace was the principal of the Royal Scottish Conservatoire for twelve years and headed brass at the Royal Academy of Music.

What contribution did John Wallace make to trumpet repertoire?

He actively sought out and revived forgotten trumpet works and composed his own music, expanding the instrument's known compositions.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Trumpet Virtuoso John Wallace Dies at 76

Trumpet Virtuoso John Wallace Dies at 76

12 Jan

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Summary

Accompanied Kiri te Kanawa at royal wedding in 1981.
Founded the adventurous Wallace Collection brass ensemble.
Composed fanfares for the Scottish Parliament and expanded repertoire.

Trumpet Virtuoso John Wallace Dies at 76

Renowned Scottish trumpeter John Wallace has passed away at the age of 76. His career was marked by a standout performance accompanying Kiri te Kanawa in Handel's 'Let the Bright Seraphim' at the 1981 wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer, an event viewed by millions worldwide. Wallace was celebrated for his virtuosic technique and his commitment to broadening the trumpet's musical horizons.

Beyond his solo performances, Wallace founded the adventurous Wallace Collection, an elite brass ensemble that performed a diverse range of music, from marches to classical works. He also served as a dedicated educator, heading brass at the Royal Academy of Music and later leading the Royal Scottish Conservatoire for twelve years, significantly shaping its performing arts programs.

Wallace's passion extended to rediscovering and championing neglected musical works and composing his own fanfares for significant events, including the Scottish Parliament. His influence as a performer, composer, and educator cemented his legacy as a pivotal figure in the world of brass music, ensuring the trumpet's prominence in classical and contemporary spheres.