Besses o’ th’ Barn Band has announced two new appointments, which complete their musical team.

Return

Coming in to work alongside resident MD James Holt are Musical Advisor Dr Roy Newsome and Associate Musical Director Geoff Bradley.

Chairman Matt Bailey told 4BR: "We are delighted to have Roy and Geoff on board. With James, the three of them have the talent, knowledge and experience to really work the band hard and get the best out of our players!"

Exciting

He added: "Despite all the extra practise we’re having to put in, it’s a very exciting time and a privilege to work with them. Such a wide spread of conducting talent can only benefit the band, and allows James to continue on as Musical Director with Besses Boys Band, where his results over recent years speak for themselves."

Such a wide spread of conducting talent can only benefit the bandChairman, Matt Bailey

Jumped

Matt revealed that Roy was approached to become the band’s musical advisor and jumped at the chance to get involved once again with the band he helped to return to the very top of the contesting tree when winning the 1982 British Open

Roy will advise the band and two MDs on all matters musical, with James taking regular rehearsals and Geoff, another former Besses player and experienced conductor, focussing on contest preparation and performance.

Busy year

The band has a busy year ahead. As well as performing concerts and contests, Besses will feature in a BBC documentary on composer Gustav Holst, to be broadcast at Easter.