The banding world has been shocked to hear of the tragic death of Robert Jose — the solo euphonium player of Roche Brass Band in Cornwall. The highly respected player took his own life on December 21st.

Great distinction

Taught by Albert Chappell and Steve Sykes, he played with great distinction for Heyl Youth, Redruth Youth, Redruth Town, St. Dennis, St. Austell, Bodmin, Mount Charles, Camborne and more latterly since 2012, with Roche Brass.

He was a former member of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain and held the Principal Euphonium position for six courses. He also became the Junior Slow Melody Champion of Great Britain — a title he successfully retained for a second year and was a former winner of Radio Cornwall's 'Musician of the Year' accolade.

Tributes

Roche Brass posted this message on its Facebook page in tribute: "It is with great shock and sadness to have to say that our solo euphonium player Robert Jose tragically died in the early hours of the morning. There are no words to describe the way we are all feeling.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. He was one in a million who will be greatly missed by us all."

Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family. He was one in a million who will be greatly missed by us allRoche Brass

Good friend

His friend and former playing college Jeremy Squibb stated: "Robert was a good friend, as well as being a real maverick which all of the banding movement, especially in Cornwall loved.

He was the life and soul of the party, a talent, an inspiration, a frustration, and a damn good chap."

No funeral details have yet been announced.