Steven Mead's extraordinary pioneering work with the euphonium has gained him worldwide recognition as one of the world's leading euphonium players and he has been acclaimed as the most traveled soloist in the history of the instrument. Based in the East midlands in the UK, his hectic schedule sees him playing concerts with leading ensembles, orchestras, brass and wind instrument bands the world over. In recent years he has diversified still further and has even begun to play popular styles and jazz. Not only has he been at the forefront of performances but is credited as a pioneer in euphonium education and repertoire and is currently much in demand as a recitalist and clinician throughout the world of brass instrument playing. Steven has been a professional euphonium soloist for some 15 years after a successful career with some of the top British brass bands and as a full time music teacher. His love for the euphonium developed seriously from the age of 14 where he began entering competitions at local music festivals. He graduated with a BA Honours degree in Music from Bristol University, later continuing his education at Newton Park College, Bath where he gained a Post Graduate Certificate in Education. He received an invitation from music director Howard Snell to join the Desford Colliery Band, coinciding with his decision to accept a teaching position at the nearby DeFerres High School in Burton on Trent. The Desford years, 1983 to 1989, saw the band playing at its very best, achieving many awards. By 1989 Steven has been invited to teach euphonium at the Royal Academy of Music, London, the Birmingham Conservatory, and the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester. On two occasions he won the solo prize in the BBC Best of Brass Competition. He was also awarded the Euphonium Player of the Year Award for 1986 and 1993. Innovative too is his work with the unique Brass Band of Battle Creek (USA), his involvement with the 5 National Tuba Euphonium Festivals in the UK and his setting up of specialist euphonium "schools" in the Benelux countries, Italy and Japan. His innovation has extended to mouthpiece and instrument design, including the Besson Prestige Euphonium.