Robert Biddlecome, 95, esteemed bass trombonist, educator, and arts administrator, died on May 17, 2025. He had been a member of Local 802 since 1950.

Mr. Biddlecome served as principal bass trombonist of the New York City Ballet Orchestra for an extraordinary 47 years, retiring in 2010, after playing his final Nutcracker. His work with the orchestra formed the foundation of a distinguished career that spanned concert halls, recording studios, and classrooms across the country.

During his long career he was selected by Leopold Stokowski as bass trombonist of the American Symphony Orchestra, was bass trombonist and manager of the Aspen Festival Orchestra for 30 years as well as a member of the Aspen Festival administration for more than 20 years. He played a key role in shaping the festival’s artistic and educational programs and was also an artist-in-residence, contributing to its musical excellence both on stage and behind the scenes. He was bass trombonist of the American Brass Quintet for 28 years and was directly responsible for establishing the bass trombone in chamber music and building that repertory. He may be heard on more than 30 recordings with the quintet.

Mr. Biddlecome was president of The American Brass Chamber Music Association, served as a board member of Chamber Music America, and was former president of the American Symphony Orchestra. He also served on the faculties of the Brooklyn College Conservatory, the Mannes School of Music and the Juilliard School. His principal teachers were Simone Mantia and Roger Smith. He was born in Somerville, New Jersey and graduated from Somerville High School after which he attended Juilliard, where he earned both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. Following his studies, he joined the Army band, serving as assistant first trombone and later solo euphonium. Upon returning to New York in 1961, he performed with the Goldman Band and various symphony orchestras.

He is survived by his brothers James, Charlie and David; children Richard, Steve, Theresa, John, Thomas and Lawrence; stepson William; 11 grandchildren; and many great and great-great grandchildren.

He will be remembered not only for his exceptional musicianship but also for his devotion to family, education, and the advancement of brass music.

Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral mass on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at 9:30am at St. Paul’s Church, 216 Nassau Street, Princeton, New Jersey.

Arrangements are under the direction of Mather-Hodge Funeral Home in Princeton, New Jersey.