The Blackburn & Darwen Band has announced the appointment of Matt Whitfield as their new Associate Conductor.

He graduated from the University of Salford in 2012 with an Honours Degree in Music, where he was awarded the Roy Newsome Conducting Prize in his final year.

Direct work

Matt recently left Black Dyke after a successful two year spell on percussion to concentrate on conducting, and will work directly with Musical Director Nick Sheppard as well as still playing percussion.

It’s great to have Matt on board. He brings with him a wealth of experience and new ideas to strengthen the band for the futureBlackburn & Darwen Band

New ideas

Band Chairman Chris Blaylock told 4BR: "It’s great to have Matt on board. He brings with him a wealth of experience and new ideas to strengthen the band for the future. We all look forward to working with him."