Robert Biddlecome, esteemed bass trombonist, educator, and arts administrator, died on May 17, 2025. He was 95.
Mr. Biddlecome served as principal bass trombonist of the New York City Ballet Orchestra for an extraordinary 47 years, retiring in 2010, after playing his final Nutcracker. His work with the orchestra formed the foundation of a distinguished career that spanned concert halls, recording studios, and classrooms across the country.
During his long career he was selected by Leopold Stokowski as bass trombonist of the American Symphony Orchestra, was bass trombonist and manager of the Aspen Festival Orchestra for 30 years as well as a member of the Aspen Festival administration for more than 20 years. He played a key role in shaping the Festival’s artistic and educational programs and was also an artist-in-residence, contributing to its musical excellence both on stage and behind the scenes. He was bass trombonist of the American Brass Quintet (ABQ) for 28 years and was directly responsible for establishing the bass trombone in chamber music and building that repertory. He may be heard on more than 30 recordings with the ABQ.
Mr. Biddlecome was president of The American Brass Chamber Music Association, served as a board member of Chamber Music America, and was former president of the American Symphony Orchestra. He also served on the faculties of the Brooklyn College Conservatory, the Mannes School of Music and the Juilliard School. His principal teachers were Simone Mantia and Roger Smith. He was born in Somerville, NJ, and graduated from Somerville High School after which he attended the Juilliard School of Music where he received both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. Following his studies, he joined The United States Army Band, serving as assistant first trombone and later solo euphonium. Upon returning to New York in 1961, he resumed performing with ensembles such as the Goldman Band and various symphony orchestras.
He is survived by three brothers, five sons, one daughter, one stepson, 11 grandchildren, and many great- and great-great-grandchildren.
He will be remembered not only for his exceptional musicianship but also for his devotion to family, education, and the advancement of brass music.
