Brighouse & Rastrick continues to make a number of key high profile signings as they look to build on a brace of podium finishes at the British Open and National Final this year.

Sop and Band Manager

After playing for the band at the Royal Albert Hall, and announcing his impending departure as MD of the EYMS Band, Alan Morrison takes on the soprano cornet role as well as becoming Band Manager.

Alan is no stranger to the West Riding Band — having previously been both principal cornet and conductor — as a spokesperson told 4BR: "Alan has been around the fringes of the band since David King joined and played on several contest performances, including the 2010 Nationals win and 2011 Yorkshire Area victory.

David's call just eight days before the National this year came as somewhat of a shock but he sold Alan the soprano part and he thoroughly enjoyed the build-up and performance. In discussions with David and Chairman Dean Redfern, Alan quickly became interested in returning to the band full time and is delighted to be a playing member once again."

Not to be missed

Alan added: "It quickly became apparent that these two opportunities were not to be missed and I look forward to developing the business side of the band as well as being a part of one of the best bands I have ever heard under the inspirational leadership of both David King and Leigh Baker."

Euph, tuba and cornet

It was also announced that two other key roles have been filled, with Philippe Schwartz moving from Grimethorpe to become the new principal euphonium, whilst the respected Steve March joins on Eb tuba.

Philippe currently works as a freelance euphonium soloist and low brass tutor at various private schools in the North-West of England and is also a visiting euphonium tutor at the Folkwang Musikhochschule in Germany.

4BR was informed that having worked with Philippe in the past as guest soloist with National Australia Brass, David King recommended his appointment based on his technical ability and security as a player, whilst Steve March has helped the band many times over previous years on both trombone and baritone.

Steve in fact returned for the British Open on second trombone but played Eb tuba for their Albert Hall performance.

With this mix of experience, youth and talent built onto an already strong band, it is an exciting time for Brighouse & Rastrick as they look towards improving on their results in 2016Spokesperson

Promotion

In addition, Hayley Moore joins the solo cornet bench, leaving the principal cornet seat of Milnrow Band, whilst the second trombone seat has been filled by 16 year old Ellena Newton, a talented student at the Chethams School of Music, with the experienced Steve Lomas taking on the bass trombone role.

In addition to the new signings the band also announced the departure of Michael Golding, with his position as assistant principal cornet being filled by the promotion of RNCM student Dominic Longhurst.

Exciting time

The spokesperson concluded: "With this mix of experience, youth and talent built onto an already strong band, it is an exciting time for Brighouse & Rastrick as they look towards improving on their results in 2016."