Following Hatfield’s recent successes at the Cheltenham National Finals and Bolsover contest, the Yorkshire band has announced a significant reshuffle of players in its euphonium and baritone ranks.

Step back

Solo euphonium Andy Kennedy has decided to step back from the role to make way for Mick Buckley with immediate effect. Mick will now lead the section for the remainder of year as the band prepare for the start of the 2015 contesting season.

Meanwhile, Andy, who works as a roof designer in Derbyshire and has been travelling the 60 mile each way trip to band every rehearsal for the past two years, will take up the solo baritone role with Steve Fisher swapping over to euphonium.

Opportunity

Andy told 4BR: "The band had the opportunity to sign Mick Buckley before Cheltenham and we couldn’t miss out on a player of his pedigree.

I've been on the seat for three enjoyable years and I think it’s about time for a change, so it's all fell in to place nicely. I have to say, having Mick bumping me up for the past couple of months has been pretty special. We were making some gorgeous noises!”

I've been on the seat for three enjoyable years and I think it’s about time for a change, so it's all fell in to place nicelyAndy Kennedy

Thanks

A band spokesperson added: “We'd like to thank Steve Fisher for showing great bandsmanship in enabling this coup of a signing to take place.”