The Scottish Brass Band Association has announced that Russell Gray has been appointed as the new Musical Director of the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland.

Long association

Russell has already enjoyed a long association with NYBBS, having joined as a young player in 1982, after which he became the band’s principal cornet for 9 years.

He later became a valued member of the tutor team and this year, at the invitation of Richard Evans, Russell participated in the 2013 NYBBS Summer Courses as Guest Conductor.

International reputation

Working with all three NYBBS bands, he conducted select items at the closing concert in Perth Concert Hall, including a joint performance of Elgar Howarth’s ‘Zurich March’ with the National Children’s Band and National Youth Reserve Band, as well as leading the NYBBS senior band on the demanding Peter Meechan composition, ‘The Legend of King Arthur’.

With an international reputation as both a soloist and conductor, he graduated from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in 2007 with distinction for his Masters Degree in Orchestral Conducting — later becoming Principal Conductor of the Cambrian Orchestra at St Giles.

Conducting roles

His has also held leading conducting positions with the National Youth Band of Switzerland and Queensland Youth Band in Australia, and earlier this year was appointed Musical Director of the 2014 European Youth Brass Band.

Delighted

Russell commented: "I’m delighted to accept this position. I have enjoyed a long relationship with the NYBBS organisation and now look forward to my time as Musical Director.

I am honoured to follow on from Richard Evans, who has been an inspiration not just to me but so many others."

I’m delighted to accept this position. I have enjoyed a long relationship with the NYBBS organisation and now look forward to my time as Musical DirectorRussell Gray

Benefit

George Burt, President of SBBA added: "We are very proud to welcome Russell Gray as Musical Director to the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland and, as was clearly demonstrated during the 2013 NYBBS courses, his involvement with the organization will enable the members to greatly benefit from his wide musical experience as both a conductor and player."