Bassist, Composer, and RPO Chair Gareth Wood has Died, Aged 73

As well as serving as a bassist in the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Wood was a celebrated composer

Hailing originally from Cilfynydd, Wales, Gareth Wood studied the double bass at the Royal Academy of Music and joined the RPO in 1972. During his time with the orchestra, he appeared under some of the twentieth century's most prominent conductors and frequently undertook international tours.

From 1991, he spent three years as the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra's (RPO) Chair, and also composed several commissioned works for the orchestra — including the overture Suffolk Punch.

He was also a beloved composer, particularly of music for brass bands, and his work Five Blooms in a Welsh Garden was the test-piece for the European Brass Band Championship in 1992.

Wood was also passionate about supporting young people in the music world. He was closely involved with much of the RPO's educational and outreach work, and was commissioned to write a number of pieces for the National Youth Orchestra of Wales.

In addition, he wrote works for youth bassists — including Light, a bass dectet commissioned by the National Centre for Young Bass Players in 2011. Wood also composed works for children, including Sea Dogs — which is designed to accompany a story written by the poet Francesca Kay — and Santa's Stressful Day.

Our condolences to Mr. Wood's family, friends, and colleagues.