Stuart Gray’s association with the Trombone began at the age of 12 after brief flirtations with both the Violin and Clarinet.
He quickly progressed and was soon performing in many bands in and around Gateshead. In his teens Stuart started to travel to Leeds to study with Chris Houlding (Principal Trombone, Opera North. Professor of Trombone, Royal Northern College of Music) and during this time was a member of Northern Junior Philharmonic Orchestra, British Youth Opera, and National Youth Theatre of Great Britain, joining them on their tour to Russia.
Stuart is a well known figure of several genres in the North East, playing in Orchestras
and bands, and touring extensively with The Elvis Collection as well as with the
Frank Zappa Tribute Band -
Having always been active in the Brass Band Movement, he started his playing career in the early 80’s with Harton and Westoe Colliery Band and enjoyed spells as solo trombone with Silksworth Colliery Band and Greggs Bakery Band. As a conductor he took over Ovington Tynedale Band when aged only 23, taking them from the 4th to 2nd section over the subsequent 10 years. He is currently resident conductor with RMT Easington Colliery Brass Band, a post he has held since 2002.
Stuart works for Tees Valley Music Service where as well as being a Brass peripatetic teacher he also holds the post of Assistant Area Music Co coordinator for Stockton. As part of his work with the music service he conducts the Tees Valley Youth Brass Band and coaches the Tees Valley Big Band.
Stuart Gray
