Trumpet Virtuoso Played for Royal Wedding

John Wallace, a celebrated trumpeter, composer, and educator, died at the age of 76. His distinguished career began in the brass band tradition of Fife, Scotland, and evolved into a globally recognized performance and advocacy journey.

Wallace achieved international renown for his trumpet performance at the 1981 wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana, accompanying Kiri Te Kanawa. He also founded the Wallace Collection brass ensemble in 1986, dedicated to advancing brass music and expanding its repertoire through innovative performances and recordings.

Beyond his performance career, Wallace was a dedicated educator. He served as principal of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland from 2002 to 2014. Following his tenure, he led the Music Education Partnership Group, successfully campaigning for free instrumental music tuition in Scottish schools, a significant achievement secured in 2021.

Wallace's early musical development began in his native Methilhill, Fife, where brass band culture was prominent. He later became a principal trumpet for orchestras such as the London Symphony Orchestra and the Philharmonia, and premiered concertos by notable composers like Malcolm Arnold and Peter Maxwell Davies.