Jimmy was a Member of the LSO Percussion section from 1959 to 1972, playing Principal from 1962.
He began playing percussion in the Army cadets aged 13 and later studied with Peter Allen at Trinity College as well as Charles Donaldson, his predecessor at the LSO. He spent several years with the London Philharmonic Orchestra before joining the LSO.
When Pierre Boulez became Chief Conductor of the BBC Symphony Orchestra, Jimmy left the LSO to become their Principal Percussionist. As well as working with Boulez, he worked with many eminent contemporary composers including Karlheinz Stockhausen, Oliver Knussen, Krystof Penderecki and Hans Werner Henze.
He is the author of the book Percussion which is part of the Menuhin Music Guide Series as well as Practical Percussion, A Guide to Instruments and their Sources.
Our thoughts are with his wife, Rita, his son Barry and daughter Nicky, and all his family and friends at this sad time.
Further Reading
Obituary: Frank Mathison, 1928–2026
The London Symphony Orchestra is saddened to hear of the passing of Frank Mathison, former LSO Principal Bass Trombone, at the age of 98.
Obituary: Michael Tilson Thomas, 1944–2026
The London Symphony Orchestra was deeply saddened to hear of the death of its Conductor Laureate and former Principal Conductor Michael Tilson Thomas.
Obituary: Alexander Murray, 1929–2026
The LSO is saddened to hear of the death of Alexander Murray, former Principal Flute.
