Gerry Birch began his career in the music industry in 1969 as an apprentice French Horn Maker with Paxman Musical Instruments. After 14 years making French Horns and repairing every conceivable type of Brass instrument and a further 5 years as Brass Technician with Bill Lewington Ltd, Gerry started his own business in Norfolk.

With Gerry in the 'hands on department' and his partner Jane Prince in charge of the admin, Swaffham Music soon established itself as a leading Specialist Brass Shop.

In 2003 after 15 years in Norfolk, Swaffham Music amalgamated with Peter Rose Woodwind Repairs and formed Unison Music Co Ltd. This required relocating to Canterbury, Kent.

During this amalgamation, the company purchased the Peter Gane Mute Manufacturing business and now after two and a half years, it has become apparent that there is not enough time or indeed space to run both businesses successfully from the same premises.

The result is the formation of Gerry Birch Music Services.

This new company will manufacture the world famous Peter Gane Mutes, offer an expert Brass Repair Service and supply a range of quality second-hand instruments.