4BR has been informed of the death of the highly respected bandsman Charles Shipp, who passed away peacefully on Friday 3rd January.

Like so many bandsmen to enjoy fulfilling and successful musical careers, Charles commenced started playing with his local Salvation Army Band.

Player and conductor

In his teens he joined the Haverhill Silver Band to become their highly regarded solo euphonium before transferring to the City of Cambridge Band in the same role for 25 years.

He then went on to enjoy a further ten years as the band's Musical Director, leading them to success at the Cambridgeshire Championships, the Pontins Hemsby Championship and the First Section London & Southern Counties Regional Championship.

A player of great virtuosity, composer Philip Sparke wrote 'Party Piece' for him in 1996, a work that recognised his well earned reputation as performer of the highest quality — and one who featured with other top national soloists at many high profile events on radio, television and recordings.

He stated that he proudest personal moment as a player was coming fifth and being award the accolade of 'Best Euphonium' at the National Solo Championships of Great Britain during an era when the event attracted the majority of top players in the country.

True bandsman

In 1995 he became conductor to the Haverhill Silver Band. Under his guidance they rose from Third to First Section in consecutive years, winning the First Section London & Southern Counties Regional Championship in 1999.

As one friend told 4BR on hearing the news: "Charles was a true bandsman."