Jeff was born in Nottingham in 1931, and inherited a violin from a professional musician in the family while still at primary school. He received ‘sixpenny’ lessons from a local teacher and quickly showed exceptional talent for music and a natural aptitude for the instrument. At the age of 15 he won an Associated Board scholarship to the Royal College of Music in London, where he studied with George Stratton (Leader of the LSO at the time).
His course was interrupted by two years of National Service in the Royal Signals, where he joined the regimental orchestra as leader, an experience that laid the foundation for his long and distinguished orchestral career. After his national service Jeff returned to the RCM for two years to complete his diploma.
On graduation he joined the First Violin section of the London Symphony Orchestra, where he played for six years before moving to the Co-Principal Second Violin position. He shared the desk with Neville Marriner for some years, before moving to the BBC Symphony Orchestra, where he remained until his retirement. Together with his violinist wife, Audrey, he continued to give generously of his time and talent, leading the Hatfield Philharmonic, and was particularly supportive of young musicians.
Jeff died peacefully in July and we send our condolences to his family and friends.
