Tom Pearson
Bb Bass
When did you join Littleport Brass?
1995
When did you start playing and on what instrument?
Until my voice broke I was a keen singer. I tried other instruments, recorder, guitar, piano. None of which I was particularly good at. My Piano teacher advised my parents that she ‘thought I just enjoyed the outing and that I might get on better with Brass as it didn’t involve using both hands!’ In 1994 I started trumpet for about 2 months, before being moved to Eb Bass. When returning from university in 2002 I was moved on to BBb Bass.
Who was your inspiration when you started playing?
Andrew Frost & Steve Garwood!
Why do you enjoy playing at Littleport?
I probably still do ‘enjoy the outing’ to be honest. But I have come to realise that with practice it is actually possible to master semi quavers!
What has been your most enjoyable moment so far with Littleport in terms of music performed, social events, contests or concerts ?
2013 Joint Memorial concert with GUS band. This was a very special event. In memory of a long standing member of the Band ‘Howard Peacock’ who I was fortunate enough to have in my section for a few years. I learnt a lot from him in this time. Also it was an opportunity to play alongside a world class band.
What would you like to achieve with Littleport in the future?
There has been some highs and lows all the way through my time in the band I have been resilient enough to keep going. Hopefully we will soon be out of the third section (into the second not fourth!) Beyond that, contesting wise I am not too bothered, but to play good music to a high standard that entertains the public is paramount to the success of the band and encouraging younger players to take interest. Fortunately, our current MD seems to have grasped this, so hopefully there will be some succession..
Away from Littleport what else do you like to do?
Work and spending time with family