James Scott

The death has been reported of James Scott, performer, conductor, adjudicator and one of the brass band movement's most respected figures. He sadly passed away on Sunday 24th January, aged 95.

James made his name as a cornet player with the City of Coventry and Munn and Felton’s bands. He also occupied the principal cornet seat with Grimethorpe Colliery Band and was cornet champion of Great Britain in 1959 and 1960.

He then went on to a successful career as a conductor and in 1960, became musical director of the Cammell Laird Band. In 1973, he was appointed professional conductor of Brighouse and Rastrick Band and with whom he won the National Brass Band Championship of Great Britain later that year.

Following continued success with the baton with Grimethorpe, Yorkshire Imperial, Foden’s, Northop and Tredegar James was equally respected as an adjudicator and for decades had the reputation of being one of the finest judges in the business. His passing leaves the banding movement poorer and he will be missed by all who knew him. A full tribute to James Scott will appear in the next edition of BBW.

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