About

In the summer of 2018, professional trombonist and conductor David Pearce was asked to direct a rehearsal for a big band local to him called the Bluestones Big Band. After a successful evening he was approached by the lead trombonist - Mark Tong - about the idea of coaching the trombone section.

After rehearsing the trombone section, David suggested the idea of perhaps working through trombone quartet repertoire at another session, and it was then that the Slidekicks Trombone Quartet was born.

The members who make up the quartet are Mark Tong, Tracey Tong, Lesley Cole, and Richard Tagg on bass trombone. Based in Louth, Spilsby and Alford, Lincolnshire, the quartet meet regularly to rehearse under the guidance of their musical director David, or, as they affectionately call him, "Coach" or "Davib". ("Davib" because of his attention to the use of proper vibrato in traditional big band music!)

Since its formation, the quartet have performed several successful concerts around Lincolnshire. Slidekicks are currently working hard towards their first CD recording, which will include classical and swing music, as well as some traditional trombone quartet repertoire.

Their repertoire is extensive. They are able to play in a variety of styles, from classical repertoire, swing, jazz and even baroque - the earliest work in the quartet's library dates back to the 1500s!

Slidekicks are a versatile group who are available to perform for any occasion. Why not contact us today and add some live music to your next event?

"From the outset, it was clear that an evening with the Slidekicks was going to be hugely enjoyable - talented musicians enjoying their music, enjoying each other and enjoying having an audience to entertain"

"Their varied repertoire ensured that there was something for everyone, as well as something new to discover"

"This is a group that needs to be heard! Four talented musicians who thrive on making music and entertaining an audience"

The Slidekicks

Mark Tong

Mark was born in Spilsby and attended the Franklin Secondary School where he was first introduced to the trombone.

Mark is a founder member and lead trombone with the Bluestones Big Band, and has played as a guest player for the Sounds Easy Big Band, as well as playing with the magnificent Dave Pearce Orchestra.

Mark is also the second trombone for Steve Walker's Big Swing Band.

Tracey Tong

Tracey began her music adventure at the age of 11 when she started to learn to play the trumpet at school. Following in her brother's footsteps, it wasn't long until she started to play the trombone.

Like Mark, Tracey is also a founder member of the Bluestones Big Band and plays regularly for them on 2nd trombone.

Lesley Cole

For several years Lesley sang in a choir based at the Royal Albert Hall and having played the saxophone and cornet, she was then given a trombone as a surprise present for her bus pass birthday.

Lesley is the 3rd trombonist for the Bluestones Big Band and also plays regularly with the Louth Wind Orchestra.

Richard Tagg

Experienced at playing the recorder, piano (up to grade 7), and organ, Richard started playing trombone after seeing George Chisholm on the TV.

Richard is the bass trombonist of the Bluestones Big Band, as well as Steve Walker's Big Swing Band.

He is also bass trombone with the Louth Wind Orchestra.