Born in Oldham, Paul Woodward is a fifth generation Salvationist and fourth generation trombonist and was introduced to the instrument, by his father, at the age of 7. His father was also an accomplished trombonist within the Salvation Army, and it was his early influence and tuition that inspired Paul to learn the trombone and begin to master the solo repertoire of The Salvation Army. His grandfather also played an important role during these early years in encouraging and developing his brass playing.

Paul grew up in Yorkshire playing in the Salvation Army Youth Band before becoming Principal Trombonist of Leeds West Hunslet and then Castleford Band. During this period Paul was also Principal Trombone of the “A” Band from the famous Cobham Hall Music School as well as Principal Trombone with both the Household Troops Band and Egon Virtuosi Brass. It was over these years that Paul gained great experience and guidance from well-known and respected musical leaders such as Norman Bearcroft, Robert Redhead, James Williams, Stephen Cobb, Don Jenkins, Trevor Davis and Len Ballantine.

In 2003 Paul joined Black Dyke Band under the direction of Prof. Nicholas Childs and in 2004 was appointed the first ever Co Principal Trombone player in the history of the band. During this period Paul and the Black Dyke Trombone section also performed around the world demonstrating trombone techniques and promoting new compositions.

After 16 enjoyable years with Black Dyke, Paul took the decision in June 2019 to step down as Co-Principal Trombone to dedicate more time to his ever-increasing solo career.

Paul has enjoyed many years of high-profile banding within the Salvation Army and is in constant international demand as soloist and trombone tutor where he enjoys the opportunity to teach and encourage players of all ages. Travelling the World Paul has appeared as guest soloist, conductor and clinician in Singapore at the Low Brass Arts Festival, Star Lake Music Camp (New York), Florida Music Institute, Eastern Michigan Music Camp, USA Southern Territory Music Institute, Chicago Music Institute and Norway as well as other music camps in the UK.

Appearing on many recordings, Paul has also had the privilege of performing in varied locations across the UK including the Royal Albert Hall, the Symphony Hall Birmingham, the Bridgewater Hall Manchester, the Sage Gateshead, the Queen Elizabeth Hall London and the Fairfield Hall London as well as overseas performances in Chicago, Florida, Ireland, Holland, Switzerland, Germany, Norway, Singapore, Philadelphia and Bermuda. Paul has had the pleasure of being soloist with notable “SA Bands” including New York Staff Band, Chicago Staff Band, Enfield Citadel Band, Bristol Easton Band, Chalk Farm Band and Coventry City Band.

Paul works for Barclays PLC where he is Head of UK Receivables Finance & ABL, Corporate and International Corporate Bank. Married to Sarah in 1992 they live in Wakefield, West Yorkshire with their daughter Emma and son Daniel.

Paul Woodward is proud to play exclusively Michael Rath Brass Instruments