Sound the Trumpet!

Paul Archibald is a renowned British trumpeter and educator with an illustrious career in classical music. A graduate of the Royal College of Music, he became Principal Trumpet of the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden, and co-founded the English Brass Ensemble. He spent many years touring with the Philip Jones Brass Ensemble as the youngest ever recruit, as well as with the English Brass Ensemble and the London Sinfonietta. With the PJBE he enjoyed almost rock star status in brass-mad countries like Japan, travelled the world and made some incredible recordings. Passionate about education, Archibald has held various teaching positions, including at the Royal College of Music and Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Known for his versatility, he's performed in a range of genres from orchestral to chamber music, solo performances, and even contemporary works. His contributions have been invaluable in shaping the UK's brass music scene.

As a professional pianist, Helen Reid pursues a busy career teaching and performing around the UK and abroad. Recent appearances have included a centenary performance of Vaughan Williams' Lark Ascending with violinist Jennifer Pike, and a recital at the Dubai Opera House. Helen Reid first came to public attention when she appeared on BBC2 in the National Keyboard Finals of the BBC Young Musician competition. In 2000 she won first prize in the Karic International Piano Competition. Helen has given recitals all around the UK and has performed in Spain, Slovakia, Hungary, Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic. Performances have included Rachmaninov’s Piano Concerto No.2, Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. She is currently professor of piano at Bristol University and leads the Professional Studies course at the Guildhall School.