John will be fondly remembered by the MU’s Education Team as a positive lifeforce and a truly remarkable individual. Photo: ©The Wallace Collection.
John Wallace was an inspirational musician, educator and leader whose achievements range from holding principal trumpet positions in major London orchestras to serving as Principal of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland (RCS) from 2002 to 2014.
John was born in Fife in 1949. After studies in performance and competition, he joined the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra as co-principal trumpet in 1974. He then moved to the London Symphony Orchestra as joint principal trumpet for two years before serving as principal trumpet of the Philharmonia Orchestra for 19 years.
John developed an extensive solo career alongside his orchestral work, performing with the Philip Jones Brass Ensemble and his own Wallace Collection Ensemble. He was also a prolific composer, with recent works including a song cycle, The Centre of Things, a Symphony for Brass Band and a one-act Opera, Opsnizing Dad.
John brought transformative change to music education in Scotland
During his successful tenure as Principal of the RCS he was known for his warm and approachable style, never losing touch with his roots in the brass music of his childhood. Under his leadership, the Conservatoire’s learning and teaching portfolio expanded to forge a groundbreaking and multi-disciplinary curriculum.
After stepping down from this role in 2014, John became Convener of Scotland’s Music Education Partnership Group (MEPG). He led this with vision and determination, bringing about transformative change for music education in Scotland, including achieving Scottish Government funding for free instrumental tuition across the country.
A profound legacy
John was a lifelong MU member and a valued colleague and supporter of the Union’s work in music education. His legacy is profound, and he will be fondly remembered by the MU’s Education Team as a positive lifeforce and a truly remarkable individual.
John received an OBE in 1995 and a CBE in 2011. He was presented with the Queen’s Medal for Music in 2021, awarded annually to an outstanding individual or group of musicians.
John was Patron of the Scottish Brass Band Association, which recognised him with its Outstanding Achievement Award in 2025. In the same year he was presented with Honorary Membership of the Royal Philharmonic Society.
Speaking at MEPG’s conference in September 2025, John said, “We must continue to celebrate something we Scots are really good at… music education.”