Spotlight on Oliver Toms

Local young trumpeter Oliver Toms is quickly establishing himself as an exciting emerging musician. He combines technical skill with a passion for jazz, brass band, and orchestral performance. Ahead of his solo appearance at the Young Soloists Concert, we spoke with Oliver about his musical influences.

He also discussed his favourite repertoire and what it means to perform Haydn’s iconic Trumpet Concerto with St Botolph’s Music Society.

When did you start playing the trumpet?

I first started playing the cornet at age 9 in the Essex Scout Band, and also took up trumpet that same year.

What first inspired you to start playing the trumpet?

Hearing other musicians performing in a band together, and developing an early interest for jazz. It made me want to pick up the trumpet and start making music with others.

Who has been the biggest influence on your musical journey so far?

Performing with the National Youth Brass Band at Blackburn Cathedral when I heard the principal trumpet of the London Symphony Orchestra, James Fountain, play several solos. This included a cornet solo I have played in the past (Zelda) which inspired me to keep improving my sound and technique.

Do you have a favourite piece to play, and why?

The third movement, titled Spiritual, of Jean Hubeau’s Trumpet Sonata is a firm favourite of mine. It blends French Romantic music with 20th century jazz and blues, and challenges my range.

What excites you most about performing with our orchestra?

This will be the first time I have performed an entire concerto, or indeed as a soloist with an orchestra. I cannot wait to do both with such an iconic concerto as the Haydn. I have loved playing with the orchestra at recent concerts, so I look forward to performing as a soloist alongside such high quality musicians.

If you could play anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I would love to play at the Royal Albert Hall, and to follow in the footsteps of trumpeters such as Alison Balsom and Wynton Marsalis.

What are your musical goals for the next two years?

I am excited to join the university music scene. There I hope to develop my love for jazz, brass bands, and orchestras through university and wider music ensembles.