The obituary notice of Geoffrey (Geoff) HUTCHINSON

The beat goes on, Geoff xx

I think I was Geoff's first percussion student in Northumberland, 1991-1993 - he was working in North Tyneside and asked to take me on after the previous teacher left and he REVOLUTIONISED my attitude, enthusiasm and endeavour in the first half hour of being with him. He made me stop listening to rubbish drummers, he immediately loaned me a pile of CDs and literally transformed my already enthusiastic attitude in to something deeper.

He in no small way contributed to my decision to read music and university level and I was forever inspired by him and his approach, even when subsequent instrumental teachers fell short, I would think what Geoff would advise and I was very proud he asked me to teach percussion with him in Northumberland when I graduated - I regarded that as a signal honour.

My life went in a different direction, away from music - but his foundational attitude to professionalism, practice, hard work and finding the fun in it all is still with me today.

An kind man, an incredible drummer, an inspirational teacher and one of the funniest men I've ever known. It was an absolute privilege to be one of Geoff's pupils and eventually, a colleague.

I have just found out (28th November) that he passed away and I am absolutely devastated to learn of it. My thoughts are entirely with his family and friends.

I think I was Geoff's first percussion student in Northumberland, 1991-1993 - he was working in North Tyneside and asked to take me on after the previous teacher left and he REVOLUTIONISED my attitude, enthusiasm and endeavour in the first half hour of being with him. He made me stop listening to rubbish drummers, he immediately loaned me a pile of CDs and literally transformed my already enthusiastic attitude in to something deeper.

He in no small way contributed to my decision to read music and university level and I was forever inspired by him and his approach, even when subsequent instrumental teachers fell short, I would think what Geoff would advise and I was very proud he asked me to teach percussion with him in Northumberland when I graduated - I regarded that as a signal honour.

My life went in a different direction, away from music - but his foundational attitude to professionalism, practice, hard work and finding the fun in it all is still with me today.

An kind man, an incredible drummer, an inspirational teacher and one of the funniest men I've ever known. It was an absolute privilege to be one of Geoff's pupils and eventually, a colleague.

I have just found out (28th November) that he passed away and I am absolutely devastated to learn of it. My thoughts are entirely with his family and friends.

Remembering a unique, very special and inspirational person - We shared happy times together and you always had a funny tale to tell………We shall miss you.
All our love,
Ruth & Bahman XX

GeoffreyHUTCHINSON
(76) Blyth

Geoffrey (Geoff) born to Joyce and Ted in Wallsend, peacefully passed away at home in Blyth on 5th November 2025.

Treasured husband to Jinine and proud father to Lisa and John, grandfather to Zak and Paul and great grandfather to Maisie. Geoff lived a full and blessed life, living the dream as an outstanding musician and educator. His family and the wider drumming community are devasted and his absence will lead a lasting void.

A lovely gentleman,rest in peace