Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Bobby started his musical career with the Newtongrange Silver Band, the Dalkeith Burgh Band and the City of Edinburgh Band. He received his formal musical education at The Royal Military School of Music (Kneller Hall), Royal College of Music and Royal Academy of Music and served in the Regimental Bands of The Royal Dragoons and Royal Horse Guards. In 1957, Bobby joined the Royal Canadian Air Force where he served in Edmonton’s Tactical Air Command Band and in Ottawa’s RCAF Central Band. In 1960 he was transferred to the NORAD Band in Colorado Springs.

After leaving the Forces in 1966, Bobby performed in Vancouver as a freelance musician and lectured at UBC’s School of Music. Always in demand as a conductor, adjudicator, clinician, music arranger and renowned trumpet soloist, Bobby continued his successful musical career throughout Canada and the U.S. Moving to Toronto in the early 1970's, Bobby performed with Howard Cable, Rob McConnell, Guido Basso, Dave Woods and many other well known Canadian bandleaders. He led his own popular dance band and became Director of Music for the 7th Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery Band. Bobby retired from the Canadian Forces in the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel.

Bobby is the past President of the Toronto Musicians’ Association and conductor of the Greater Toronto Area Teachers Wind Ensemble. He serves as an advisor to Canadian performing arts agencies and is the recipient of many national and international music awards, including the Canadian Band Association National Band Award, recognizing his significant contributions to music, music education and the business of music.

Bobby was with the Band from 1998 to 2002 and we are very honoured to have enjoyed the expertise and humour of this fine musician and conductor. Unfortunately, Bobby passed away in 2021. We will miss advice and humour but he will always be remembered in his music.

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Last modified: July 18, 2013