This treatise examines the musical development, professional career and teaching philosophies of British euphoniumist Steven J. Mead. Mead is perhaps most well-known for his virtuosity on the euphonium, touring over twenty countries and premièring one hundred seventy five works. Equally important are his prolific discography and his efforts to improve euphonium education around the world. One of Mead’s significant accomplishments is his record as the first specialist euphonium teacher at the Royal Academy in London. Mead is the senior baritone-euphonium teacher at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, England. In addition to teaching euphonium in the UK, Mead instructs many euphonium workshops and summer courses in countries across Europe, Asia and South America. Mead also contributes greatly to instrument and mouthpiece development working closely with the Besson Company and Denis Wick.
Having written numerous articles for journals and for his website, Mead was the primary source for this study. Many details of his life and career, however, came from interviews conducted by the author. More specific information arose from interviews from three important figures of Mead’s life: his father Rexleigh Mead, Derek Bourgeois and Howard Snell. Additionally, recollections from Mead’s current and former students were collected in a student questionnaire survey. Three aspects of their experience with him were addressed: Mead’s teaching philosophies, his influence on their lives, and memorable anecdotes.
Appendices include four repertoire lists covering the solos, etudes, brass band excerpts Mead recommends, as well as the orchestral excerpts Mead uses in his studio teaching at the Royal Northern College of Music. In addition, a discography and two of Mead’s articles are included. The result is a synopsis of information for euphoniumists regarding the life and accomplishments of this influential performer and teacher.
