Gary Wiffen occupies the 1^st Trumpet seat in the VTs. He started out playing cornet in the Abingdon Brass Band and was taught by the professional trumpeter Bob Cutting. Gary switched to trumpet aged 16 and has played with the Blue Velvet Youth Dance Orchestra, in soul bands, ska bands, and a Blues Brothers tribute band. Currently he plays in both the Velvet Tones and the Bob Cutting Big Band.

Outside music Gary has a season ticket at Oxford United, and enjoys cycling and walking.