Jeff was a member of the MU for 74 years.
Jeff, as he was always known to family and friends, was born in Nottingham in May 1931 and, while still at primary school, inherited a violin from a professional musician in the family who was emigrating to Australia.
He received ‘sixpenny’ lessons from a local teacher and quickly showed exceptional talent for music and a natural aptitude for the instrument. At the age of fifteen he won an Associated Board scholarship to the Royal College of Music (RCM) in London, where he studied with George Stratton.
His course was interrupted by two years of National Service in the Royal Signals. After completing his basic training he joined the regimental orchestra as leader, an experience that laid the foundation for his long and distinguished orchestral career.
A life dedicated to the orchestra
After his National Service, Jeff returned to the RCM for two years to complete his diploma. On graduation he joined the first violin section of the London Symphony Orchestra, where he played for six years before moving to the co-principal second violin position.
He shared the desk with Neville Marriner for some years before moving to the BBC Symphony Orchestra, where he remained until his retirement.
Together with his violinist wife Audrey, he continued to give generously of his time and talent, leading the Hatfield Philharmonic and, as evidenced by the many tributes following Jeff’s death, was particularly welcoming to and supportive of young musicians.
He died peacefully on 22 July 2026 at Launton Grange Care Home in Stratton Audley, Bicester.
Jeff joined the MU in 1952. This tribute has been written by his son-in-law, David Marcou.