Jeffrey Vaughan Martin, one of Maidstone’s most inspirational musicians and conductors died suddenly on Friday (April 15).

Tributes have been paid to the 78-year-old, who single-handedly shaped many of the county town’s most cherished institutions over a career spanning more than four decades.

Mr Vaughan Martin’s death came the day after the funeral of Martin Pring, vice chairman of Maidstone Singers, who lost his battle with cancer in March.

David Pickett, president of Maidstone Choral Union, said: "His contribution to the music culture of Maidstone has been immense and has included the Maidstone Choral Union and The Maidstone Singers."

Mr Vaughn Martin studied at the University of Wales and Oxford University before securing a scholarship to study conducting on the Gulbenkian Conducting Course at the Guildhall School of Music.

After moving to Maidstone in 1968 he worked as specialist music inspector for Kent and became well-known in the county for his tireless work with orchestras and choirs.

Mr Vaughn Martin founded the award-winning Kent Youth Wind Orchestra and in 1974 set up the Maidstone Youth Music Society (MYMS).

He also led the Maidstone Choral Union (MCU) from 1974 to 2008 and in 1998 set up The Maidstone Singers.

Posting on Facebook, Helen Steel of Maidstone Wind Symphony (MWS), said: "It is difficult to understate Jeffrey's contribution to youth and community music in Maidstone.

"Many MWS players owe much of their musical grounding to Jeffrey and the organisations and ensembles he founded and championed - in particular Maidstone Youth Music Society and the Kent Youth Wind Orchestra."

MWS president and Maidstone Borough Councillor Dan Daley, added: "I have had the pleasure of working with Jeffrey in many ways for over twenty years and have greatly appreciated his support, advice and cooperation. He will be sorely missed but always remembered with respect."

Mr Vaughn Martin leaves his wife Jean, daughter Debbie and son Jonathan.

Do you have a memory or tribute to Jeffrey Vaughan Martin you would like to share? Email dgazet@thekmgroup.co.uk or comment below.