Paul Woodward

Born in Oldham, Paul Woodward is a fifth generation Salvationist and fourth generation trombonist and was introduced to the instrument, by his father, at the age of 7. His father was also an accomplished trombonist within the Salvation Army, and it was his early influence and tuition that inspired Paul to learn the trombone and begin to master the solo repertoire of The Salvation Army. His grandfather also played an important role during these early years in encouraging and developing his brass playing.

Paul grew up in Yorkshire playing in the Salvation Army youth band before graduating into the Senior Band in Bradford where he also held the position of Deputy Bandmaster. Then followed 8 years as Principal Trombonist of Leeds West Hunslet Band. During this period Paul was also Principal Trombone of the “A” Band from the famous Cobham Hall Music School of The Salvation Army as well as Principal Trombone with both the Household Troops Band and Egon Virtuosi Brass.

It was over these years that Paul gained great experience and guidance from well known and respected musical leaders such as Stephen Cobb, Norman Bearcroft, Robert Redhead, Trevor Davis, Don Jenkins, James Williams and Len Ballantine.

Paul has enjoyed many years of high profile banding within the Salvation Army and is in great demand as a soloist and trombone tutor where he enjoys the opportunity to teach and encourage young players.

Appearing on many recordings, Paul has also had the privilege of performing in varied locations such as the Royal Albert Hall, the Symphony Hall Birmingham, the Bridgewater Hall Manchester, the Queen Elizabeth Hall London and the Fairfield Hall London as well as overseas performances in Ireland, Holland, Switzerland, Germany, Norway, USA and Bermuda. Paul has also had the pleasure of playing with notable Salvation Army bands such as Enfield Citadel Band, Bristol Easton Band, Chalk Farm Band, Coventry City Band and The International Staff Band as well as YBS Band, Rolls Royce Band and the Fairey Band.

In 2003 Paul joined Black Dyke Band and in 2004 was appointed the first ever Co Principal Trombone player in the history of the band which he considers to be a great honour. In 2007 Paul became a Trustee of Black Dyke Band. Paul and the rest of the Black Dyke Trombone section undertake many workshops as a quartet around the country demonstrating trombone techniques and promoting new compositions. The quartet aims to inspire and encourage musical development by supporting Music Schools, Youth Bands and other activities.

In 2008 Paul became the North East & Yorkshire Representative as well as the Brass Band Representative for the British Trombone Society (BTS). The BTS is an organisation incorporating players of all ages, styles and abilities. Over the years countless professional and other talented players have given their time and services to BTS so that less experienced trombonists can be inspired and learn from their skill and musicianship.

Graduating from Coventry University in 1991 with an Honours Degree in Civil Engineering, Paul is now Regional Corporate Director – Barclays Large Corporate Sales Finance. This role involves Paul travelling many miles both in the UK and overseas, but his trombone is always with him.

Married to Sarah in 1992, they live in Wakefield, West Yorkshire with their two children Emma and Daniel.