4BR has been informed that the successful partnership between current Brass in Concert champion Foden’s and their MD Garry Cutt has come to an unexpected end.

Immediate

It is believed that a decision was reached on Thursday evening and that the partnership that has yielded 11 major championship successes in the past five years was terminated immediately.

A spokesperson for the band told 4BR: "At present we can only confirm that Foden’s and Garry Cutt have parted company with immediate effect. An official release will be made in the near future."

I was informed just before rehearsal on Thursday night. I just can’t think why this has been done in such a wayGarry Cutt

Speechless

In an exclusive interview, Garry Cutt, told 4BR: "I’m speechless at the way in which this has come about. I had a meeting with band representatives on Wednesday where I was informed that a new contract was being offered to me."

He added: "I was more than happy with this, but it seems that within 10 hours everything had changed and my services were no longer required. I was informed just before rehearsal on Thursday night. I just can’t think why this has been done in such a way."

New trio

4BR understands that Foden’s have approached three high profile conductors to find out if they can take the band at the English National, British Open and National Finals, although the details are yet to be confirmed.

Aware

Gary Cutt informed 4BR that he too was aware of that situation. "I’ve been informed that the band had already undertaken to book three well known conductors for the major contests, including the forthcoming English National. If true, I find that quite amazing and disappointing given the time frame involved."

40 year win

Garry Cutt was appointed MD at Foden’s in January 2005, after he lead Foden’s to their first British Open victory for 40 years in September 2004 – on just a 10 days notice, following the departure of Thomas Wyss.

Major wins

He went on to lead Foden’s to win 11 major championship titles, including 2 British Open and All England Masters wins, victories at Brass in Concert and the English National and an unparalleled series of five consecutive victories at the North West Regional Championships.

So disappointing

Garry added: "I’ve had such a fantastic relationship with the band over the past five years, with some amazing highs and a few contesting lows, such as three consecutive second places at the Nationals, but it has always been a relationship based on very clear understanding. That is what makes the way the decision has been made so disappointing to me."