Dr. L. Brett Baker – Trombone Tutor and Conductor
Dr. L. Brett Baker is internationally recognised as one of the foremost trombone soloists of his generation. Renowned for his expressive playing, flawless technique, and pioneering spirit, Brett has built a global reputation through a remarkable body of solo work that spans recordings, live performances, and educational outreach.
A passionate advocate for new music, Brett has commissioned over 100 solo works for the trombone, working with many of the leading composers of our time. He is one of the most recorded brass soloists in the world, having released over 40 solo albums, including eight under his own label, White River Evocations. He has featured as a guest soloist on a further 40 recordings across major brass band and classical labels.
Brett’s solo career has taken him across the UK, Europe, the USA, Australia, South America, and Asia, performing at leading venues and festivals including the International Trombone Festival, Trombonanza, and the American Trombone Workshop. His concert schedule sees him perform up to 50 solo appearances annually, where he also delivers masterclasses and workshops on solo technique and performance artistry.
Previously Principal Trombone of the legendary Black Dyke Band for 24 years, Brett now holds the Solo Trombone seat with the Cory Band, the UK’s number one ranked brass band. His artistry has earned him accolades such as the British Open Solo Championship title(three times) and the International Trombone Association’s President’s Award in 2020.
Beyond performance, Brett serves as Sales Director and Global Artist Liaison for Denis Wick & Alliance Products, and is a long-time Artist for Michael Rath Brass Instruments, with whom he co-developed his own signature mouthpiece. A respected educator and conductor, Brett is also Chair of the Association of Brass Band Adjudicators and continues to influence the future of brass through his teaching and mentorship.
Since joining Black Dyke in 2000 under Dr. Nicholas Childs, Brett has played a key role in multiple major championship wins and international tours, appearing on over a dozen of the band’s recordings. He has also been a guest soloist and clinician across North and South America, Europe, Australasia, and the UK, giving recitals and masterclasses at leading conservatoires and festivals.
A passionate educator, Brett teaches with the National Children’s Brass Band of Great Britain and has long-standing roles with youth brass initiatives in the UK and abroad. A former Chairman of the British Trombone Society, he is committed to expanding the trombone’s solo repertoire and has commissioned over 30 new works from composers including Philip Wilby, Philip Harper, and Martin Ellerby.
Brett lives in Cheshire with his wife Sarah and is increasingly active as a conductor and adjudicator, continuing to shape the future of the brass band world through performance, education, and advocacy.