Career
Steele-Perkins picked up his first trumpet at the age of ten and progressed so quickly that just 6 years later he was playing with the English National Youth Orchestra. On graduating from the Guildhall School of Music, Steele-Perkins began his professional career with the Sadler"s Wells Theatre (ENO) 1966-1973, before performing with the London Gabrielli Brass Ensemble 1974-1984, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra 1976-1980, English Baroque Soloists 1980-1991, Amsterdam Baroque Orchestra, The King"s Consort, 1985–2009, and Retrospect Ensemble, 2009–present. Steele-Perkins"s purity of tone and artistic subtlety have received critical acclaim for more than four decades now.
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, he played a key role in the growth of historically-aware trumpet playing, using a collection of more than 100 pre-1900 mechanised and "natural" trumpets to bring a brighter, clearer sound to baroque performances.
In addition to his work with classical orchestras and period instruments, Steele-Perkins has developed a body of television and film work which is universally recognisable today - most famously he played the theme tune to the popular British television programme Antiques Roadshow, the James Bond film Foreign Your Eyes Only and the The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. Steele-Perkins has also accompanied some of the world"s greatest singers, recording Handel"s "Let the bright Seraphim" with Dame Kiri Te Kanawa and "Eternal Source of Light Divine" with James Bowman.
His more recent performances alongside Emma Kirkby, Lynn Dawson, Carolyn Sampson, Bryn Terfel and Lesley Garrett have cemented his international reputation as one of classical music"s great ambassadors. Well known for his enthusiasm and wit, Steele-Perkins is also a popular presenter giving recitals, lectures and masterclasses at schools, colleges and music venues around the world.
He also provides advice and guidance when called upon by today"s up-and-coming trumpeting talent.