National champion Cory has welcomed two new players to the band ahead of their title defence at the Royal Albert Hall on the weekend.

Experience

The highly experienced David Johnson joins on second euphonium. Originally from Sennen Cove in Cornwall, he has spent the last 24 years as a euphonium player and cellist in the Royal Marines Band Service.

Having played for bands across the South West and Midlands, over the past decade David has also gained a reputation as a highly successful conductor, leading Aldbourne to considerable success during his four year tenure with them.

He told 4BR: "I'm really excited at the opportunity to return to playing at the highest possible level, starting with the National Finals."

Aussie link

Meanwhile, Jamie Nuss makes the slightly longer trip from the City of Toowoomba in Queensland, Australia, after making the decision to come and live in Wales with his fiancée, Emma.

Jamie began playing with the Toowoomba Municipal Band in 2003, before going on to study music at the University of Southern Queensland majoring in percussion studies whilst playing professionally on a regular basis.

Street life!

He told 4BR: "We are slowly getting used to the Welsh way of life, although we still can’t work out how to pronounce our street name!

I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to perform at such a high standard and I can’t wait to begin touring, performing and recording with the best brass band in the world."

Cory has taken the opportunity to thank Cardiff business 'A Space in the City' for providing assistance with Jamie and Emma's accommodation on their arrival.

Both players can be seen in action with the band at Cory’s open rehearsal, to be held on Thursday 9th October at Treorchy Comprehensive School, Pengelli Treorchy RCT CF42 6UL, starting at 7.30pm4BR

Open rehearsal

Both players can be seen in action with the band at Cory’s open rehearsal, to be held on Thursday 9th October at Treorchy Comprehensive School, Pengelli Treorchy RCT CF42 6UL, starting at 7.30pm.