Welsh Area champion Tongwynlais Temperance said a fond farewell to their soprano star Morgan James (top right) at the All England Masters International Championship in Kettering on the weekend.
With the recent arrival of a new baby and with a new job in the pipeline following the completion of his own Masters degree, he has decided that the time is right to take a step back from top level banding to focus on new priorities.
Key member
Band Chairman Jason Bevan told 4BR: "Morgan has been a key member of the band for over six years and has provided stability and leadership to the cornet section throughout his time on soprano."
He added: "He has been an integral part of the band’s resurgence – from winning the First Section National Finals in 2009 all the way through to winning the Welsh Area title in Swansea this year.
He leaves behind a real legacy of excellence and appreciation, as was shown in being voted the band’s ‘Players Player of the Year’ at our annual awards dinner."
Cool headed
Even with personal emotions running high in Kettering on what was his final contest performance with the band, the sop star still produced his usual cool headed contribution – until the final note ended that was!
Then he gave out a cry of exultation as he revelled in the band’s fine performance of ‘A Kensington Concerto’.
I’ll always be grateful to Tongwynlais for the performance opportunities and camaraderie I have enjoyed over the past six years and I wish the band every success for the futureMorgan James
Right time
Morgan added: "I’ve found it increasingly difficult over the last two years to juggle my band commitments alongside my academic and career studies.
Whilst my wife Sally has been totally supportive of my playing, I feel the time is right to temporarily pull back from banding so I can spend more time with Sally and Charlie-Boy.
I’ll always be grateful to Tongwynlais for the performance opportunities and camaraderie I have enjoyed over the past six years and I wish the band every success for the future."
