Martin Blessett

Martin made his first appearance with the ISB in 2012, covering a weekend at Leeds West Hunslett. Following this, he deputised regularly on both EEb and BBb tuba, including the band’s tour of Australia in 2015. After a long period of cover in 2017 Martin was commissioned a member of the ISB in January 2018.

Born and raised at Peterborough Citadel, having moved through the Young Peoples band, including rather unsuccessful spells on Cornet, horn and baritone. Just as he was going to give up playing, he was asked if he would take a tuba to the Divisional Music school, he said yes and never looked back. Becoming a member Peterborough Citadel Band in 1988, the band’s centenary year, proudly taking his place on the tuba section next to his Grandad Bill Ward, the longest serving bandsman with over 60 years’ service. During his time at the corps, Martin served as Young Peoples Band Leader, was involved with the divisional youth band, and has been a staff member at various music schools around the territory, including Territorial Music School. He was also a member of the Household Troops band for 19 years.

In 2023, after 35 years as a member of Peterborough Citadel Band Martin moved away from Peterborough, relocating to Essex to become a teacher of music at a secondary school, where he soldiers at Leigh-on-Sea corps.

Martin studied under Major Peter Parkes, gaining B.A. (hons) in Band Studies. He has also played with bands including Brighouse & Rastrick Band, Grimethorpe Colliery Band and Fairey, as well as various orchestras and ensembles.

Away from work and banding, Martin is a massive Peterborough United Fan (one of two in the band alongside his brother Neil!) and attends as many games as possible along with his son Will.

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