Duncan Wilson

Duncan Wilson grew up in Cambridgeshire in a musical family before winning a place at the Guildhall School of Music & Drama to study trombone at the age of 18. Following graduation, he became a founder member of the Mahler Chamber Orchestra, touring extensively throughout Europe for three years before returning to the UK to establish a freelance career.

Over the past 25 years, Duncan has performed with all of the UK's major orchestras and has undertaken regular principal trombone duties with the Scottish Chamber Orchestra. Alongside his performing career, he has developed a reputation as an experienced educator and currently teaches at the Royal Northern College of Music, where he works with the next generation of professional brass players.

As a composer and arranger, Duncan writes music that is both engaging for performers and rewarding for audiences. His catalogue reflects a broad range of musical influences, combining craftsmanship with a strong sense of communication and his works have been performed by ensembles ranging from community groups to leading brass bands. His experience as a performer and conductor gives him a practical understanding of ensemble playing, resulting in music that is idiomatic, effective and enjoyable to rehearse and perform.

Duncan was Musical Director of Kidlington Concert Brass in Oxfordshire for 13 years before relocating to the North East of England, where he is now Musical Director of Cockerton Prize Silver Band. His conducting career has encompassed ensembles of all abilities, with a particular passion for developing musicians while maintaining the highest musical standards.

Away from music, Duncan holds qualifications in counselling, children's mental health and LGBTQ+ inclusivity. These interests continue to inform his teaching philosophy, placing equal emphasis on musical excellence, wellbeing and creating a supportive environment in which musicians can thrive.