RIP Maurice Murphy

[AndyCat]

Sorry to report that Maurice Murphy, former Principal Cornet of the Black Dyke Mills Band and Principal Trumpet of the London Symphony Orchestra, passed away this morning.

Most of you will have heard his stunning playing on movie soundtracks such as Star Wars, but I remember him for performances with the National Youth Barss Band of Great Britain when I was a member, conducted by Harry Mortimer. His version of the simple tune 'I Hear You Calling Me' on a CD we made still brings a lump to my throat.

A true legend.

[chronolith]

Maurice Murphy was something of a hero to me in my trumpet days. He was always a revelation to the other players in my studio when I brought some of his recordings in.

My favorite has to be his rendition of the Arutiunian Trumpet Concerto which guided me into my own discovery and performance of the piece. Such clarity, sensitivity and color! Even now some of those lessons still carry over into my tuba playing.

Very sad indeed.

[craig2000]

So so sad. I only had the pleasure of working with maurice on a couple of occasions. A complete legend and truly wonderful gentleman. R.I.P MM. Check out the LSO web site for a beautiful tribute to one of the worlds finest brass players.

[doublebuzzing]

Damn, I was just marvelling over his sound on some LSO recordings of Tchaikovsky 4, 5, 6. As big a sound as the Russians but much more refined. That was one heck of a brass section: Murphy, Wick, Fletcher. Get all the recordings of the LSO from the 60s to the late 80s for one of the best brass sections ever.

[oedipoes]

Sad to hear that.
He had the true trumpet sound!

Wim

[Steven Noel]

He will be missed very much by the whole musical world , wonderful person , teacher and of course player , god bless him , may he rest peacefully .