The death has been reported of Stan Kitchen, founder of Studio Music Publications. He passed away on 10th January aged 86.

Born in Acton in West London, he first found fame on the radio concert stage as a young pianist and ventriloquist, leading to performances as a teenager on the famous BBC radio, Carrol Levis Show.

Publishing

National Service in the Royal Air Force saw an end to his professional show business ambitions although on his return he worked for the famous publishing company of Francis, Day & Hunter, making life long connections and friendships with the likes of Harry Mortimer, Ronald Hamner and Edrich Siebert.

He later set up the Arnold Reproduction Company which catered for the vast majority of brass band music printing needs for the likes of R. Smith & Co, Boosey & Hawkes and Wright & Round, before setting up alongside his beloved wife Shirley, the Studio Music Company in 1957.

Recordings

As the company grew he also started producing LP recordings on the Polyphonic label, (first set up by Gilbert Vinter). On his death the management of the label was taken over by Stan who expanded its catalogue to include many of the world's finest brass bands.

A number of iconic LPs (as well as cassettes and CDs) were produced alongside his great friend and colleague Michael Moor, including his own favourite 'Firebird' featuring Grimethorpe Colliery Band and other critically acclaimed releases that featured the works of composers such as Philip Sparke, Goff Richard and Martin Ellerby.

Show business

He was also worked for a number of years with famous show business stars such as the Beverley Sisters, managing their musical appearances throughout the world, as well as the television host Hughie Green.

An immensely popular figure in the banding world, he was presented with the All England Masters Dedicated Service Award in 2011 and the Iles Medal by The Worshipful Company of Musicians in 2012 at that year's British Open Championship.

He remained a much admired and sought after figure, especially when setting up his trade stand at major brass band events.

he was presented with the All England Masters Dedicated Service Award in 2011 and the Iles Medal by The Worshipful Company of Musicians in 2012 at that year's British Open Championship4BR

Funeral details

His family are holding a memorial service to celebrate his life on Friday the 2nd February in St Albans, Hertfordshire.

Details of the service can be obtained from:
Phillips Funeral Directors
Dartmouth House
68 Alma Road
St. Albans
AL1 3BL
Telephone: 01727 851006