Martin Yates started playing the trombone at the age of twelve. Fired with the idea of dance band music and jazz he joined the Midland Youth Jazz Orchestra. By the time he was 16 he was the principle trombone for the Birmingham Schools Orchestra Wind Band and the Midland Youth Orchestra and was also composing/arranging his own music. Also at this time he began taking on professional engagements in Europe and around the UK, playing and recording with the likes of Kenny Baker and the legendary Don Lusher.
As a teacher Martin has worked around the Midlands for many years and works full-time for Worcestershire Youth Music. He is very active in the delivery of wider opportunities for young students and is keen to develop large class based instrumental lessons as an aid to introducing students to the joy and fun of brass instruments.
Martin has written music for all occasions including commissions for National Brass Band Championships, music for Symphony hall Birmingham, many bands and Orchestras as well as solo work not to mention music for the BBC Big Band Competition! Martin is an active composer and trombone player, playing in big bands, symphony orchestras and small ensembles.
In his spare time Martin enjoys sailing and has two classic Triumph sports cars.
