4BR has been informed that due to increasing commitments, Brett Baker is to step down as principal trombone at Black Dyke.

Although he will still be associated with the Queensbury band through development projects such as junior and youth quartet initiatives, he will make his final contest appearance at the European Championship in Perth in May.

14 wonderful years

Brett told 4BR: "After 14 wonderful years I’ve found it difficult to balance commitments at the University of Salford, outreach projects, global trombone tours, private teaching and commitments at Black Dyke.

I’ve also enjoyed conducting the University of Salford Brass Band and other opportunities such as with Leyland Band last year. This year I want to focus more on conducting whilst continuing to play when the opportunity arises."

Guidance

He added: "I’ve been conducting bands since 1999, and have been fortunate to enjoy guidance from the likes of Howard Evans, Howard Snell and Nicholas Childs; so I knew it was something I eventually wanted to focus on."

With a full list of solo engagements to come, Brett will now have time to also concentrate a greater part of his busy schedule on his conducting career.

Permanent post

He concluded: "I plan to take on as much conducting experience as possible over the next few months with the aim of finding a permanent post later in the year.

I’m looking forward to a new chapter in my musical life, but I certainly will not turn my back on the trombone playing."

I’m looking forward to a new chapter in my musical life, but I certainly will not turn my back on the trombone playingBrett Baker

Outstanding soloist

Black Dyke Director of Music, Dr. Nicholas Childs added his thanks for Brett’s 14 year contribution to the Queensbury Band: "Brett is an outstanding soloist and has given a wonderful service to myself and Black Dyke.

We all wish him well and hope we can still be part of his exciting future plans."