David Richard Purkiss BMus (hons) PGCE
David began playing the cornet at the age of four under the tuition of his grandfather, Alfred Gilbert a retired Salvation Army Bandmaster. He was a member of the Salvation Army Junior Band from the age of seven until fifteen, when he moved into the Senior Band at Derby Central where he is now Principal Cornet.
In July 2005, David graduated from Birmingham Conservatoire obtaining a Bachelor of Music degree with Honours. During his time at the Conservatoire, he was Principal Cornet for the duration of his 4 year course.
Throughout his time at the Conservatoire, David was a member of Travelsphere Holidays Band (GUS) on Repiano Cornet, before moving to Pennine Brass on Principal Cornet. He later received an invitation to play Repiano Cornet for Fodens (Richardson) Band, which he accepted, before later returning to Travelsphere Holidays to play Principal Cornet. David has been fortunate to guest with bands including Black Dyke, Faireys, Leyland and Brighouse and Rastrick.
David is currently Principal Cornet with Fuoco Brass and Salvo Brass, two composite bands of musicians associated with the Salvation Army.
In July 2006, David graduated from Nottingham Trent University, obtaining a Post Graduate Certificate of Education in Secondary Music teaching. David is currently Assistant Director of Music at The Friary School, Lichfield.
In January of this year, David fulfilled a life long ambition becoming a member of The International Staff Band of the Salvation Army, where he plays Solo Cornet.
Favourite piece of SA music:-
Such Love (Paul Drury)
Favourite Food:-
Roast Dinner
Favourite Film:-
'Herbie films'
Favourite Sports Team:-
Derby County FC
