Geoffrey Gilbert

Geoffrey Winzer Gilbert ( born May 28, 1914 in Liverpool, † May 18, 1989 in DeLand ) was one of the most outstanding British flutists of the 20th century.

Geoffrey Gilbert was the son of Welsh parents, the father of professional oboist. From the age of 12 he received flute lessons, which he continued at the Liverpool College of Music and the Royal Manchester College of Music. In 1930 he became a member of the Hallé Orchestra. 1933 to 1948 he was interrupted by military service, principal flutist of the London Philharmonic Orchestra, 1948-1952 Principal Flute of the BBC Symphony Orchestra and from 1957 to 1963 in the same position with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Gilbert was a soloist with the English premieres of flute concertos by Jacques Ibert, Carl Nielsen, André Jolivet and Jean Rivier.

Gilbert has held teaching positions at Trinity College of Music, the Guildhall School of Music and the Royal Manchester College of Music. In 1969 he moved with his family to Florida, where he worked until 1979 as Director of Instrumental Studies at Stetson University in DeLand. Even after his retirement, he continued working as a teacher and leader of master classes.

At Gilberts students count Trevor Wye, Susan Milan, Alexander Murray, William Bennett, Peter Lloyd, Averil Williams and James Galway.