Mike Westbrook pays tribute to trumpeter Stuart Brooks:

We just heard the sad news that Stuart Brooks has died after a two-year fight with cancer. Stuart was one of the finest trumpet players around and the leader of choice for many bands. I was fortunate to work with him often. He first set his  stamp on our music with On Duke’s Birthday in 1984. Our most recent collaboration was  with the Uncommon Orchestra and  we had gigs together in Italy in 2018 and at Ronnie’s  which were a high point for all of those involved.

I know many will agree that it  was  a major asset to have Stuart in your band.

As a composer I have always been grateful for his formidable musicianship, for his humour and generosity of spirit.

His positive attitude never deserted him even when things got bad towards the end.

Kate and I and all Stuart’s musician friends salute a truly great musician. We have lost a star. Rest in peace, and our love and sympathy to Jan and the family.

LINK: Kate and Mike Westbrook’s website