Whitburn Band legend Jim Martin passes away

Whitburn Band is saddened to learn of the death of Jim Martin, a band legend and the very first president of the band, at the age of 93.

Trombonist Jim joined Whitburn just after the band became the 3rd Section National Champions of Great Britain in 1954. 

In 1967, he was elected as the inaugural president of Whitburn in what proved to be one of the most defining periods in the band’s history. The following year, Whitburn became the Scottish Brass Band Champions for the very first time.

The result was seen as a big shock at the time, but under Jim’s leadership the band continued to build and would go on to win the Scottish four times between 1970 and 1975, becoming one of the leading brass bands in the country.

Jim has always been a great supporter of Whitburn, and his grandson Stewart Brynes followed in his papa’s footsteps by becoming a member of Whitburn Band.

Jim was interviewed as part of a series to mark Whitburn Band’s 150th anniversary last year.

He commented: “What I’ve got out of my time with the band, and the years following it, is a wonderful friendship with a lot of nice people. Great friendships.”

Charlie Farren, Whitburn Band chairman, said: “Everyone at Whitburn Band is deeply saddened at Jim’s passing. 

“The Martins and their wider family have a long and proud connection as brass players not only in Whitburn, but also in West Lothian and beyond. 

“Jim was the first President of Whitburn Band following a change in how the band was run, and was the first of a very select group of people who are also few in number. 

“He was a caring man with time for everyone and a good listener. He was great at guiding you in the right direction with only a few words. 

“Whitburn Band members send our prayers and condolences to all of Jim’s family and friends.”

Jim Martin with Whitburn Band in the 1970s