Ebbw Valley Brass, the 2015 Second Section National Champion, has made a number of signings ahead of their forthcoming Welsh Open and Welsh Regional challenges.

Talented

With the departure of Julian Gren and Michael O'Leary due to family and work commitments, talented young trombonist Bethan Cooke comes in on solo trombone to join the experienced duo of former Tredegar players Christopher Gardner and Julian Kerrell.

The versatile Kevin White moves to Eb tuba with Craig Maunder and Dave Johnson making welcome returns on percussion and second baritone respectively. Former solo euphonium, Nigel Thomas also comes back into the fold after a short break from banding.

Team ethos

MD Gareth Ritter, told 4BR: "Being promoted to the First Section this year is a superb achievement for a band that has strong team ethos. Players are attracted by this in addition to excellent attendance levels, and whilst it's sad to see players leave, we wish them well and hope to see them again in the near future."

He added: "The new signings give us the encouragement to a very challenging year that includes our First Section debut and our first CD recording in April."

The new signings give us the encouragement to a very challenging year that includes our First Section debut and our first CD recording in AprilMD, Gareth Ritter

Composer in residence

The band also announced that well-known composer Dave Collins has accepted the role of 'Composer-in-Residence'.

The composer's works have been performed by leading soloists and ensembles, with Gareth Ritter adding: "I've had the pleasure of working with Dave in the past and look forward to a successful partnership together."