The Leyland Band has announced the appointment of five new players.

New principal

Peter Shaw joins on principal cornet, having held the same position for many years with the BT Band (latterly Stockport Brass). He also enjoyed two spells with Fairey, including winning consecutive National Championship titles in 2002 & 2003.

He replaces Lucien Rey, who returns home to Switzerland at the end of the year.

Horn, trom and perc

Meanwhile, Zoe Wright comes in one second horn. Zoe is principal horn of the Rochdale Borough Youth Band and Greater Manchester Hub Youth Band, as well as the National Childrens Band of Great Britain.

She was also the recipient of the ‘Youngest Player’ award at the recent Brass in Concert Championships, and replaces Tracey Daniel, who is taking a break from banding.

John Stevens, who lives in nearby Bamber Bridge takes on the second trombone role, whilst the band also welcome two new faces to the percussion team with Julia Bromiley and Anne Challinor.

John was formerly solo trombone at Freckleton Band and has also spent a period of time at Foden’s, whilst Julia, formerly with neighbouring Eccleston Band is a ‘Leyland Local’, having been born and bred in the town.

Former Black Dyke percussionist Anne, is a full time professional musician with the Band of the King’s Division, and now joins husband Tom on solo trombone at Leyland.

Delighted prospects

All five players are delighted at the prospect of playing with Leyland as the new season beckons.

Peter Shaw told 4BR: “Having helped at the recent Brass in Concert Championship, I was delighted to have then been asked to fill the principal cornet seat. I’m really forward to returning to top flight banding.”

John added: “I’m very pleased to be joining and looking forward to playing alongside Tom and Matt,” whilst Zoe commented, “To be able to gain valuable experience and knowledge from such a friendly and talented group of people is a great opportunity!”

Meanwhile, Julia is celebrating a historical family link. “I’m the third generation of my family to play at Leyland,” she told 4BR. “It’s one that goes back more than half a century.”

Anne added: “Leyland is such a friendly group and I look forward to a successful time with the band.”

This sums up our approach and ethos at Leyland and really will strengthen our team as we prepare for the 2015 contesting seasonLeyland Chairman, Iain McKnight

Warm welcome

“I would like to extend a very warm welcome to Peter, Zoe, John, Julia and Anne,” said Leyland Chairman, Iain McKnight.

“Their signings continue to emphasise our commitment to the highest musical standards and I am particularly pleased that this includes experienced players as well as extremely talented ‘young stars’.

This sums up our approach and ethos at Leyland and really will strengthen our team as we prepare for the 2015 contesting season.”