Geoffrey started to play the cornet at the age of 9 years, under the tuition of Harold Pinches a former Principal Cornet with Black Dyke, and many other famous bands. At the suggestion of Mr. Pinches he moved on to the Euphonium, joined Black Dyke Juniors, and remembers the commitment their conductor Mr. Hubert Hepworth gave to the band. Geoffrey had an audition with Mr. Alex Mortimer and joined Black Dyke in 1954 on 2nd Baritone, playing with them for three marvellous years, under resident conductors Edmund Hoole for a short while, followed by Jack Emmott, who emigrated to New Zealand around 1960.

The professional conductors were Harry Mortimer, followed by the legendary George Willcocks. Following the win at the British Open in 1957 National Service beckoned and Geoffrey joined the regimental band of the Xll Royal Lancers. On leaving the army, family business demands put an end to playing. However in 1980 the celebrated cornet player James Shepherd decided to form the "Jayess" band, made up of youngsters around twelve years old, and Geoffrey was founder chairman. He was very pleased when asked to become Administrator of Black Dyke at a very exciting and interesting time for the band.