4BR has been informed that after more than five years at the helm, Melvin White has decided to step down as Musical Director of Staines Brass.

Exceptional

Band Manager Jason Pickin told 4BR: "Melvin took on the role in 2008 knowing that it was a make or break time for the band, and has been instrumental in getting things back on track with his exceptional direction and motivational skills.

It’s been an absolute pleasure having him work with us, and we will be eternally grateful for the long list of successful concerts and contests we have embarked on since 2008.

There have been many highlights, including qualification to the National Finals in 2012 and invitations to the All England Masters in 2012 and 2013."

Joy

He added: "It has been a joy to work with Melvin and we made a great team. I will certainly miss our long telephone conversations on the commute home from work!"

Trom loss

The band will also be losing the services of Melvin’s wife Susan on solo trombone.

Jason added: "Susan has an outstanding player, giving us some incredible solo performances."

Joint statement

Meanwhile in joint statement Melvin and Susan added: "After almost six happy years with the band, the regular commute from our home in Dartford has finally become too much.

There have been many highlights including an appearance at the Royal Albert Hall and two concerts at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle, where our daughter Amelia, attended one of her first concerts."

They added: "Staines has been brilliantly supportive and the atmosphere there has been conducive to quality music-making. The management team have been excellent and Susan has been particularly pleased to play alongside Keith Maxwell and Colin Reeves.

We now plan to concentrate on projects nearer home but have offered to help Staines until suitable replacements are found."

Staines has been brilliantly supportive and the atmosphere there has been conducive to quality music-makingMelvin & Susan White

Respect

Jason Pickin concluded: "Staines Brass have a huge amount of respect for the time, effort and workload that both Melvin and Susan have put into the band and wish them both, along with their wonderful daughter Amelia, the very best of luck for the future."

The band will be holding a farewell concert for Melvin and Susan at St Peter’s Church, Staines in September.