Juan Wright - Brass Educator, Conductor & Trombonist

Biography

Juan was born and educated on the Isle of Man before studying at Salford University, where he graduated in 2000 with a BA (Hons) in Band Musicianship. During his time there he toured with the university’s leading ensembles, recorded for the BBC, premiered new works, and took part in masterclasses with Denis Wick and Chris Houlding. His studies also included arranging with Professor Peter Graham, performance with Andrew Berryman and Professor David King, and arts administration with Duncan Winfield.

Since returning home in 2001, Juan has become a central figure in the Island’s musical life. As a trombonist he has performed with ensembles including Manx Concert Brass, Brassified, and the Isle of Man Symphony Orchestra. Highlights include performing the Tuba Mirum solo in Mozart’s Requiem at the Alan Pickard Memorial Concert (2011) and giving the Island premiere of Albrechtsberger’s Alto Trombone Concerto (2012). A three-time winner of the open brass solo class at the Manx Music Festival, he continues to perform widely as both soloist and conductor. He has also led ensembles such as Onchan Silver Band, the Isle of Man Wind Orchestra, and Castletown Metropolitan Silver Band to competitive success.

Alongside performing, Juan is a dedicated teacher. He gained his Certificate of Instrumental Teaching (ABRSM) in 2009, a Certificate in Education in 2015, and QTS status in 2016. He is currently Head of Brass & Percussion for the DESC Music Service, directs the Manx Youth Wind Orchestra, and continues to mentor and inspire young brass players across the Island.

He has also contributed to arts administration, including a year as Manager of the Erin Arts Centre, where he founded a brass quintet that inspired new works by Gordon Higginbottom, Howard Snell, and Raymond Leppard.