Sad passing of Nigel Boddice MBE

The Scottish Brass Band Association is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of dear friend and colleague Nigel Boddice MBE who died peacefully last night after a short illness.

Nigel was a highly respected trumpet player, conductor, tutor and adjudicator and one of the longest-serving lecturers at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

A true gentleman and outstanding musician, he also worked with the West Lothian Schools Brass Band where he had a huge influence on the musical development of young brass banders. For a time he was the musical director of the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland (NYBBS) Reserve Band.

Tributes have been pouring in on social media on how he was such a inspirational figure in the lives of brass players throughout Scotland and further afield.

As the musical director of West Lothian Schools, he enjoyed success at the European Youth Brass Band Championships and the UK Youth Brass Band Championships. He also enjoyed significant achievements as conductor of many Scottish bands.

SBBA president Carrie Boax said: “Nigel will be greatly missed by so many people, young and old, and particularly those whose lives he touched over the years. The brass band community in Scotland and beyond will be all the poorer for his passing.

“All our thoughts are with Nigel’s family and friends at this sad time.”

Nigel Boddice takes a SBBA workshop on conducting techniques