The Hammonds Youth Band has announced the appointment of Jamie Smith as its first Musical Director.

Jamie, 18, (right of picture) was previously principal cornet of the former Sellers International Youth Band, and will now combine his new role with his current position of principal cornet of the Hammonds Saltaire Band.

Excited

He told 4BR: "I’m very excited and privileged to be given this opportunity. Even though I’m still young I believe I can continue to improve the band’s performances and the young musicians.

I have had a long association with the Sellers International Youth Band, and I‘m honoured to be able to continue the good work under the Hammonds Saltaire banner."

I have had a long association with the Sellers International Youth Band, and I‘m honoured to be able to continue the good work under the Hammonds Saltaire bannerJamie Smith

Thanks

The band has taken the opportunity to thank Alex Kerwin, the former MD of the Sellers International Youth Band, whose enthusiasm and hard work developed the Mighty Oaks and Little Acorns Training Bands which helped rescue the future of the Youth Band when many players were lost.