The Fairey Band has announced the signing of the talented Siobhan Bates as their new solo horn.

Solo horn

Siobhan has previously played with Gresley Colliery and Foresters Brass 2000, and was a semi-finalist in the 2015 BBC2 Young Brass Award. More recently she was a member of Virtuosi GUS and will remain solo horn with the all conquering Youth Brass 2000.

Bowled over

Fairey MD Garry Cutt told 4BR: "I first heard Siobhan play in the European Youth Band Championship in Freiburg earlier this year. I was bowled over by her natural musical playing, phrasing and wonderfully warm sound.

She is a gifted young musician who has already fitted in so well with the band after playing for us at the British Open."

Delighted

A delighted Siobhan told 4BR that she is also looking forward to the opportunity of playing with the North-West Area champion.

"I felt privileged to be asked to play solo horn with the band at the British Open,"she said. "Gary Cutt and the players are all very supportive and encouraging so I was delighted when he asked me to take the seat on a permanent basis.

I want to thank everyone so much for the support they have given me as I've grown up, and especially those who have supported me in my decision to join such a fantastic band."

She is a gifted young musician who has already fitted in so well with the band after playing for us at the British OpenMD, Garry Cutt

No hesitation

Fairey Band Manager Nigel Beasley added: "After her wonderful performance at the Open we had no hesitation in offering Siobhan a permanent role.

It was also good to be able to talk to her parents who have also been so encouraging and supportive as she takes on this exciting new opportunity."