James Shepherd. To refer to someone in the brass band world as a legend is something that is not said lightly. To give someone that level of praise then it has to be someone really special. James Shepherd needs little introduction, except to say he is one of the few who are widely acknowledged as one of the true legends in the world of brass bands.
Born in Newbiggin-By-The-Sea, Northumberland, James received his early musical tuition from his father James snr, and was soon to be a member of the Newbiggin Colliery Band. After his National Service as the principal cornetist with the Royal Army Medical Corps Staff Band and on his return home he joined the Pegswood Colliery Band.
In 1960 James left the North East to become principal cornetist with the Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band, a position he retained for four years, until he was invited to become the principal cornetist at the famous Black Dyke Mills Band. Many still remember his ten years with the band with great nostalgia, and the fact he also became the Champion Soloist of Great Britain on three successive occasions 1962, 63, 64, a feat not equalled since.
In 1971 he was presented with the Insignia of Honour for his service to brass bands and in 1989, the Worshipful Company of Musicians added the coveted Isles Medal to his list of awards.
In 1973 he left Black Dyke to form the James Shepherd Versatile Brass. His enjoyment for performing in a small ensemble came from his involvement with the Black Dyke Octet. The JSVB, an ensemble of virtuoso players which received world wide acclaim and success. The ensemble made hundreds of concert appearances to audiences far and wide, in radio and television programmes, in recording many albums on LP, cassette and CD, and on three memorable occasions at the National Festival Concerts at the Royal Albert Hall.
In 1993 he was the first recipient of the All England Masters Dedicated Service Award. Throughout his career he has also been a dedicated teacher and conductor, passing on his knowledge and guidance to the musicians of tomorrow. Today he still inspires his fellow performers and encourages the next generation to follow in his footsteps.