All England Masters champions Tredegar have announced the signing of baritone player Jack Lapthorn in time for their Welsh Regional Championships appearance in March.

Talented

The talented 18 year, currently studying at the RWCMD in Cardiff, will take over as solo baritone from Geraint Chamberlain who has reluctantly stepped down due to increased work commitments.

Jack told 4BR that the move is something he is really looking forward to: "After I decided to come to the Royal Welsh College after my sixth form studies at Chethems School of Music in Manchester, I was hoping a position would possibly arise at a band like Tredegar."

Looking forward

He added: "To follow a player like Geraint who is so well respected in Wales is going to be hard, but I’m really looking forward to working with Ian Porthouse and the rest of the band.

I’ve had a great time with the Markham Band and will play with them at the forthcoming Welsh Open in Porthcawl — so I hope to be able to go out on a high."

Jack is a real up and coming talent – and a player who I believe has a very exciting future ahead of himselfMD, Ian Porthouse

Superb

MD, Ian Porthouse added: "Geraint has been a superb performer and bandsman with Tredegar over the years, and we know he will not be totally lost to us.

We wish him, Laura and their new baby son Tomos all the very best, and we hope to see all three back in the bandroom in the near future."

Talent

Ian is also delighted with the new signing too. "Jack is a real up and coming talent – and a player who I believe has a very exciting future ahead of himself. I’m looking forward to having him in the band."