4BR has been informed of the death of Hayden Stredwick, regarded as one of the finest soprano cornet players ever to grace the brass band movement in Wales.

Grace and musicality

A performer of rare grace and musicality, he was also blessed with the perfect soprano player’s temperament – touched by the flashes of magnificent brilliance, unpredictability, great humour and a lifelong commitment to the musical hobby he loved.

He performed with many Welsh bands, starting with Celynen Colliery before moving up the Sirhowy Valley to enjoy a wonderful spell with Tredegar under the baton of John Childs and David Thomas.

Titles

He was part of the band that won the 1974 Second Section National title as well as the Welsh Championship and Grand Shield in 1976, and played with them at the very first European Championships in London in 1978.

The current band observed a minute’s silence at their most recent rehearsal in memory of a player who brought an immense amount of joy, fun and wonderful music making to them.

Gifted

Former Tredegar Secretary and fellow player Alwyn Powell 4BR: "At his peak it was hard to think of a more musical soprano player than Hayden anywhere in the country. He was a truly gifted performer and a man you couldn’t keep your eyes off for a minute!

He brought a great deal of joy to countless people associated with banding throughout Wales."

At his peak it was hard to think of a more musical soprano player than Hayden anywhere in the countryAlwyn Powell, Tredegar Town Band

Burry Port

Hayden also enjoyed a wonderful time with the Burry Port Band in West Wales after moving to the area to work and live with his wife, Jane, who he met whilst playing with Tredegar.

A spokesperson for the Burry Port Band said: "It was with great sadness that we heard this week of the passing of Haydn Stredwick, a life long 'brass bander' who has been a very great friend of the band.

We'll all miss his enthusiasm, his encouragement, his fun, humour and his forthright honesty of our performances.”

He leaves his wife, Jane and son, Hywel, as well as countless friends.

Funeral details

The funeral will take place on Tuesday 6th November at 2.30pm in the Llanelli Crematorium.