4BR has been exclusively informed that Phil Chalk has relinquished his position as Musical Director of the Fairey (Geneva) Band.

It has also been confirmed that Russell Gray takes over with immediate effect.

Heavy heart

Phil told 4BR: "It is with a heavy heart that I have relinquished the position of MD with Fairey after three years with the band, and more than 20 years as a player."

He added: "The decision was a difficult one to take, as the band have really started to make progress, culminating with a super performance at this year's Area. However, my expanding business interests within the film and TV industry, as well as looking after a young family, have made it increasingly more difficult to give the level of commitment the band deserves."

I hope to retain an involvement with the band and the band movement at large, and would like to work on some innovative, creatively led projects in the futurePhil Chalk

Opportunity

Phil is grateful for the opportunity to have conducted the band he played for with such distinction.

"I just wanted to say a big thank you to the band for giving me the opportunity, and to wish them well with in their future endeavours. I hope to retain an involvement with the band and the band movement at large, and would like to work on some innovative, creatively led projects in the future."

Gray takes helm

Meanwhile, Fairey have been quick in appointing Russell Gray to the position with immediate effect, although as reported on 4BR, Russell was due to take the band at the forthcoming English Nationals, British Open and National Championships.

Pleased

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "We are very pleased to announce that Russell Gray has agreed to accept the position of Musical Director with immediate effect. His first concert outing took place this week rounding off the last Stroud Brass Band Concert series. Russell will make his contest debut at the English National."

Work again

The band thanked Phil Chalk for his contribution to the band over the last three years. "We thank Phil for all the sterling work he has put in over the past three years, and will certainly be working with him again in the future as and when his commitments allow."