Exchange Communications Whitburn Band has announced the appointment of a new Musical Director.

Accepted role

Anne Crookston, a former baritone soloist with the band, accepted the role in the summer and made her debut at the recent Land O’ Burns contest.

With wide and varied conducting experience with choirs and orchestras as well as brass bands, Anne also helped CWS Glasgow win the National title in 1990 before moving to Whitburn.

She is currently the Head of the Performance and Design Faculty at St. Margaret’s Academy in Livingston.

I'm looking forward to the challenge it presents and to work with musicians of the stature of Ian Porthouse, Michael Bach and Simon DobsonAnne Crookston

Thrilled

Anne told 4BR: "I was thrilled to be asked to return to the band as Musical Director with such a busy time over the next few months. I'm looking forward to the challenge it presents and to work with musicians of the stature of Ian Porthouse, Michael Bach and Simon Dobson."

Prior to Anne's appointment, the band had been working with Charlie Farren — another rising conductor in Scottish banding, who will stay on as associate conductor.

New recruits and reshuffle

Meanwhile, the Scottish champion has welcomed a trio of players who will join in time for contest appearances at the Wainstones Cup, National Championships, Brass in Concert and Scottish Open.

Kevin Smith — the former principal cornet, horn and flugel soloist of Newtongrange Silver has joined on solo cornet, whilst Stephen Duncan (percussion) has also signed from Newtongrange. Scott Findlater has signed on second euphonium. He is currently a student at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

A player reshuffle has also seen rising star Calum Tonner move to the soprano chair while Jim Chamberlain returns to flugel after a period on solo cornet.