Bond's trumpeter from 'Dr. No' to 'Skyfall' passes away

World renowned trumpeter, Derek Watkins, who lent his talents to 007's theme songs for 50 years has passed away.

Born in Reading, Berkshire in March 1945, Watkins rose to play with some of the finest musical talent, accompanying Johnny Dankworth, Maynard Ferguson, Benny Goodman, Ted Heath and Frank Sinatra and the James Last Orchestra, to name just a few.

He joined forces with Dr Richard Smith to establish Smith-Watkins Instruments, which manufacturer custom trumpets and cornets according to players needs and tastes.

Derek was a Visiting Professor for trumpet to the Royal Academy of Music, and gave master class clinics at music colleges around Europe.

As part of the promotional build-up to "Skyfall", Derek appeared in an online video, released by 007.com, all about the music of "Skyfall".



He passed away on 22nd March 2013, surrounded by family.

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