Our conductor

Norma Whitson

Norma studied the trumpet in London at The Royal Academy of Music with the then Principal Trumpet of the BBC Symphony Orchestra William Overton. Her career has covered a wide range of genres, performing in concert halls and theatres throughout Europe and the UK.

Norma is the Curriculum Team Leader for Brass with Merton Music Foundation and in this role manages a vibrant team of brass tutors working with the young people of Merton. As part of this work Norma conducts the Merton Youth Concert Band and many of her former students are now working in some of the country's leading orchestras and West End shows.

When time permits during her busy work schedule Norma continues to freelance, performing on the trumpet and giving lecture recitals and workshops to people of all ages and abilities. As well as working for the MMF, Norma is a tutor for the National Children's Orchestra of Great Britain and had the honour of coaching the brass and being present at the NCO's performance in Westminster Palace for the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrations.