Philip Jones
Philip Jones (1928–2000) was a British trumpeter and one of the most influential figures in modern brass performance. A founding member of the Philharmonia Orchestra, he later became principal trumpet of the Royal Opera House Orchestra and performed regularly with leading London ensembles, establishing a reputation for exceptional precision and clarity.
In 1951, he founded the Philip Jones Brass Ensemble, which became a pioneering force in redefining brass chamber music. Through its virtuosity, distinctive sound, and wide-ranging repertoire—from Renaissance works to contemporary commissions—the ensemble played a crucial role in bringing brass music to international concert stages and inspiring a new generation of brass groups.
Jones was also active as a teacher and conductor, shaping brass performance standards worldwide. His legacy endures through the global brass ensemble movement and the lasting influence of the ensemble that bears his name.
2 Articles by Philip Jones
Brass Bulletin 37 - 1 / 1982
Jones, Philip
1981 Geneva International Competition
Readers Letters
Philip Jones responds to the Geneva 1981 debate, arguing for fairer jury decisions, balanced repertoire, and the enduring value of international trumpet competitions.
pp. 79–81
Brass Bulletin No 37 · 1982
Trumpet· Competition· Solo playing· Contemporary Music
Brass Bulletin 48 - 4 / 1984
Dokschidser, Timofey · Jones, Philip · Mertens, Théo
Special Hungary
International Trumpet Competition, Budapest 1984
Budapest 1984 exposed a striking gap between technical brilliance and musical maturity, while three leading trumpeters challenged what competitions truly reward.
pp. 30–37
Brass Bulletin No 48 · 1984
Trumpet· Competition· Interpretation· Solo playing
3 Articles about Philip Jones
Brass Bulletin 7 - 1 / 1974
Mathez, Jean-Pierre
Conversation by the fireside
A fireside conversation with Philip Jones, Elgar Howarth and Michael Laird—an intimate exchange on brass playing, ensemble culture and musical thinking.
pp. 38–64
Brass Bulletin No 7 · 1974
Encounters· Repertoire· Brass Ensemble· Contemporary Music
Brass Bulletin 27 - 3 / 1979
Mathez, Jean-Pierre
Philip Jones
Interview
From South London bands to the Philharmonia, Philip Jones recalls his musical upbringing, orchestral life and the rise of brass ensembles in post-war Britain.
pp. 81–89
Brass Bulletin No 27 · 1979
Trumpet· Encounters· Repertoire· Brass Ensemble· Orchestral playing
Brass Bulletin 109 - 1 / 2000
Mathez, Jean-Pierre
Philip Jones 12.3.1928 - 17.01.2000
pp. 16–21
Brass Bulletin No 109 · 2000
Report