Zone One pays tribute to Peter Bassano
Brass Band World is saddened to report of the death of the conductor, trombonist, author and academic, Peter Bassano. Both a Fellow and Member of the Royal College of Music, he passed away suddenly on 1st February.
Members of Zone One Brass have offered their own tribute to the man, with whom their very formation is inextricably linked.
“Peter was Head of Brass at the Royal College of Music (1993-2004) and was an inspiration to a generation of brass players there. He formed the RCM Brass Band in the early 2000s. Practically, this involved buying new cornets, tenor horns, baritones and Bb tubas (all essential to brass bands). Ideologically it did a rare thing at the time; gave a seal of approval to a genre which can be seen as on the outside of the Classical establishment. Peter not only performed classics from the band repertoire, but encouraged, commissioned and programmed works by young RCM composers including ZOB’s first conductor, Simon Dobson.
“It was during RCMBB rehearsals that students ‘got the bug’ for banding which led to Zone One Brass being formed in 2002. As one founder member said, "Without Peter starting the RCM band, purchasing instruments and giving his support and encouragement, it is unlikely ZoB would have got off the ground".
Here are a few personal memories from the players, past and present:
“His classes and rehearsals were always memorable. He had a great way of encouraging the best from students whilst finding time to share stories and anecdotes from his time in the music profession”
“A teacher, friend and musical inspiration”
“He gave me my shot at the RCM and I’ll forever be grateful”
“It was a special time to have been in the RCM brass department under his guidance. A real encourager and great storyteller as well”
“I can think of few people who did more for me when I was starting out”
“Peter was in touch with a former ZoB player only last week and regularly sent messages of congratulations, enthusiasm and support to the band. He will be missed very much.”
