Torbay Brass Band has appointed a new Musical Director to succeed Tom Finnigan who reluctantly stepped down due to work and family commitments.

Vast experience

The vastly experienced Dennis Frere-Smith who amongst many musical roles has been Head of Music at schools in Rugby, Milton Keynes, London, Warsaw, Torino and Kuwait City takes on the role with immediate effect.

Fortunate

Band Chairman David Wilkinson told 4BR: "We are very fortunate to have secured Dennis as our musical director. He has a wealth of experience which he has been gained all over the world.

He has had success as a conductor at brass band contests and he is enthusiastic to repeat this success with Torbay – hopefully at the Area Championship in Torquay in March."

I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to pursue my conducting career with Torbay. The band has potential and is hungry for success and to improve their playing abilityDennis Frere-Smith

Ambition

Dennis himself added: "I’m delighted to have been given the opportunity to pursue my conducting career with Torbay. The band has potential and is hungry for success and to improve their playing ability.

I am looking for players who share this desire to succeed and improve whilst keeping the very friendly atmosphere we have in the bandroom."