Test Valley Brass has announced the appointment of Matthew Pithers as their new Musical Director

Matthew has spent the past 21 years as a military musician starting in the Blues & Royals and the Coldstream Guards Band, and is currently principal clarinet of the Irish Guards Band. He has also been involved with brass bands for many years, conducting the London based 'A Brass Act'.

Delighted

Commenting on his appointment, Matthew told 4BR: "I'm delighted to have been appointed and I'm looking forward to working with the band to develop the playing skills of each and every member.

It's been a while since I've been involved with a community brass band and have been looking for a new opportunity. As I live in the Andover area TVB is a perfect fit — allowing me to balance the demands of my professional life and that of my family."

High standard

He added: "The band already performs to a high standard and my vision is to develop this further by working with the MD's of the Youth Band, Frosty's and Senior Academy so that each member achieves their true potential."

As I live in the Andover area TVB is a perfect fit — allowing me to balance the demands of my professional life and that of my familyMD, Matthew Pithers

Strategy

Band Chairperson, Louise Porter, added: "The appointment of Matthew is a significant part of our strategy with the aim of enhancing the performance of all players and encouraging new players to join us."