Exchange Communications Whitburn has signed a rising star of Scottish banding and welcomed back two former players ahead of its challenge for the Grand Shield in Blackpool this weekend.

Flugel

Calum Tonner, who performed in Carnoustie & District Youth’s victory at the National Youth Band Championships in Manchester last month and was a semi finalist in this year’s Radio 2 Young Brass Soloist competition, will play flugel at the forthcoming contest.

Return

In the past month, the band has also welcomed back Jim Chamberlain and Billy McKnight.

Jim took some time out in the past year to address an embouchure change. During that period he served as the band’s resident conductor while continuing his conducting career with Dalkeith & Monktonhall. He will play tutti solo cornet at the Grand Shield.

Percussionist Billy McKnight, meanwhile, rejoins Whitburn after a period away from banding. He has previously played with Kirkintilloch.