Captain Jon Ridley BMus(Hons) MMus(Perf) LRSM AMusTCL RM

Born in 1971, Jon was raised in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire. His initial musical education was gained at school, as well as weekend workshops at the Leicestershire School of Music, and, after successful completion of his examinations, he decided to join the Royal Marines Band Service in 1989.

After three years studying as a bassoonist at the Royal Marines School of Music, Jon completed training, gaining awards for the best bassoonist and also for the best woodwind player under training. Three years were spent as principal bassoon of the Royal Marines Band based in London, before a further two years with the band at Plymouth. There then followed an appointment as the Bassoon Instructor at the Royal Marines School of Music, and with it came promotion to Band Corporal. 18 months later he became principal bassoonist of the Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Portsmouth and further promotion ensued.

In the summer of 2001 Jon completed a Bachelor of Music (Hons) degree course with Portsmouth University and, after passing with First Class Honours, he was selected to attend the year-long Royal Marines Bandmasters Course, which he passed with distinction. During this period Jon was awarded the LRSM Diploma in Directing, the AMusTCL Diploma in Music Theory, Criticism and Literature, and was very proud to receive two silver medals from the Worshipful Company of Musicians. He was commissioned within the Royal Marines in 2004 and this gave him the opportunity to study for a Master of Music degree in conducting at the Royal Northern College of Music, which he achieved in 2005.

During his career Jon has travelled extensively and performed at many important state occasions. He is currently looking forward to his first appointment as Director of Music of one of the five Royal Marines Bands.

Click here to download a higher resoulution image of Capt Ridley in Ceremonial dress

Last updated 03 March 2006