Ebbw Valley Brass has announced six new signings ahead of its appearance in the Third Section Welsh Area contest in Llandudno in March.
Six of the best
Tracy Walkerdine has moved from Bream Silver to join on solo horn, whilst Ellen Waite has returned to banding and comes in on solo cornet. Joshua Ruck joins the cornet section whilst the percussion section welcomes Craig Maunder and Matthew Tovey.
The new signings are completed by Andrew Johnson who comes in on solo trombone.
Ritter's delight
Speaking with 4BR, Ebbw Valley MD Gareth Ritter said he was delighted with securing the new signings as the band looks forward to life in the Third Section.
"We have been steadily developing and expanding our team over the past few months.
It’s always sad when players move on to pursue other opportunities, but we wish them well for the future. It was especially sad to lose Andrew Lewis who has played a significant part in the band’s history.
Unfortunately, due to personal reasons, Derek Howells has had to stop playing, but we are delighted that he has agreed to stay involved in the organisation in another capacity.
The signing of these six players has certainly pushed the band to another level and I look forward to 2014 and what will be another challenging year — starting with the Regionals in March."
The Future
Gareth added: "The band achieved its goals in the Fourth Section by winning the National Finals and gaining over thirty trophies in 2013. We are looking forward to stepping up to the next level to continue those aims — the strength of the band following the new signings certainly puts us in good health ready for the Welsh Area contest."
We are looking forward to stepping up to the next level to continue those aims — the strength of the band following the new signings certainly puts us in good health ready for the Welsh RegionalsGareth Ritter
Academy
Ebbw Valley Brass is now looking to the future and told 4BR that it wants to expand its Academy Band through links with the Local Authority Education Departments.
