After securing its fifth European crown, the Cory Band is bidding a fond farewell to three outstanding players.

Integral

Chris Turner, Joanne Childs and Lisa Fitzgerald-Lombard played with the band for a combined total of 35 years, with all three being integral performers in the most successful period of Cory’s contesting history.

Chris joined in 2003 and became one of the most respected assistant principal cornet players in the banding movement, whilst flugel star Joanne and back row cornet Lisa were part of the first influx of players that came to the band under the baton of MD Dr Robert Childs.

Extended familiy

Reflecting on his decade with the band, Chris told 4BR: "Cory has been like an extended family to me. After being invited to join by Bob Childs, who has also been a constant support to me and my family, highlights include numerous contest wins and concert performances in some of the world’s finest venues."

He added: "I also considered it a privilege to play with my best man and my daughter's godparents, and was inspired every day by the great soloists in the band. I wish Cory all the best for the future. My journey with them has been exhilarating."

Ambition

Joanne added: "When I was invited me to join Cory I fulfilled a childhood ambition. I grew up in the same village as the band and had dreamt of one day playing for them.

I’ve had a wonderful time over the years and would like to thank all the people who have made my experience so enjoyable. I’m definitely not giving up playing, but I am looking forward to having more time to spend with my family!"

Life changing

For Lisa, work commitments has meant that she has reluctantly had to give up her role leading the back row cornets after 12 great years.

"I remember my Dad calling me in 2001 to see if I could help Cory out at the European in Montreux. Little did I realise how life changing that one phone call would be!

Twelve years later I consider myself so fortunate to have been part of the amazing successes enjoyed by Cory both on and off the contest platform."

Lisa added: "I’ve been given some of the best memories of my life playing for Cory, sharing the stage with my dad, brother, sister-in-law and great friends. I sincerely wish Cory all the very best and look forward to what the future may hold."

The trio leave with a trophy cabinet filled to bursting point, with a combined CV of 25 Welsh Championship wins, 11 British Open victories and 12 European wins4BR

Trophy cabinet

The trio leave with a trophy cabinet filled to bursting point, with a combined CV of 25 Welsh Championship wins, 11 British Open victories and 12 European wins. They played their last performance with Cory in Oslo last weekend, going out on a high as the band lifted the title.

Wonderful playing

Musical Director Philip Harper concluded: "Jo, Lisa and Chris have been an integral part of the Cory team for over a decade, and we are all so grateful for everything which they have brought to the band, both in terms of the commitment, as well as the wonderful playing they have consistently brought to the stage whenever Cory performs.

I'm sad to see them go, and we will certainly miss them all."