A trio of renowned conductors will lead the musical tributes to the late, great Major Peter Parkes at a special celebratory concert in Oldham in May.

Trio

David Hirst, Derek Broadbent and Garry Cutt will take the baton as a special band of star players joins forces to remember one of the giants of the banding movement.

The concert is being held on Saturday 21st May at 2.30pm at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in Oldham — the day after the famous Whit Friday march contests in the area.

Principal conductor

Garry Cutt has agreed to be the Principal Conductor of what promises to be a magical afternoon of nostalgia and great music making. He enjoyed a close association with 'The Major' working together at Grimethorpe Colliery Band and over the years became a close family friend.

Garry told 4BR: "My first experience of watching 'The Major' was at the Kings Hall, Belle Vue in 1977 on 'Diadem of Gold'. The sight of him raising his arms in front of Black Dyke and the immediate hush that went around the auditorium will stay with me forever: You could hear a pin drop.

He was a conductor with so much charisma. It will be an absolute pleasure to lead so many of Peter's great players in a concert celebrating his lifeGarry Cutt.

Charisma

He added: "He was a conductor with so much charisma. It will be an absolute pleasure to lead so many of Peter's great players in a concert celebrating his life."

Derek Broadbent worked as an associate conductor with Major Parkes at both Black Dyke and Williams Fairey, whilst David was played a major part in the Barnsley Brass Band Musicianship course set up under the umbrella of Sheffield University.

Proud

A spokesman for the organising committee told 4BR: "We are pleased we have finalised the musical stewardship of the band. We are sure Garry, Derek and David will do 'The Major' proud."

Tickets for the vent can be purchased at: Tel: 0161 770 4083