Ashton-under-Lyne has announced the appointment of Simon Stonehouse as their new, full time professional Musical Director.

Delighted

Secretary, Gary Roylance told 4BR: "We originally approached Simon with a view to asking him to direct the band at the North West Area. Initial rehearsals and discussions on the test piece went well and we were delighted to be able to secure his services on a full time basis.

Simon is a proven and quality musician who has great experience as a top performer and conductor.”

Fairey association

Simon had a long association with the Fairey Band throughout the 1990’s where he made his name on flugel horn, an allegiance he continued into his conducting career when he accepted the role of Professional MD in 2005.

Simon told 4BR: "I have missed conducting over the last few years. Family, career and golf have taken up most of my free time. However, after I accepted the offer to take a rehearsal, I was instantly impressed with both the attitude and enthusiasm of the band.

I think they have massive potential and I am looking forward to an exciting and enriching partnership."

I think they have massive potential and I am looking forward to an exciting and enriching partnershipSimon Stonehouse

Marquee appointment

Gary Roylance concluded: "We are delighted to have made such a marquee appointment at a time when the band is working well and looking forward to progressing on both the concert and contest stages.

The band is in great shape in no small part to the efforts of their former Musical Director, Martyn Evans who left the band in November to take a short break."