Foden's has announced that Bramwell Tovey has accepted the North West Area champion's invitation to become their new Professional Musical Director and President.

Band Manager Mark Wilkinson told 4BR: "We are delighted that Bramwell Tovey has accepted our offer to become our new Professional Musical Director and President. He will lead the band at all major contests in 2016 and 2017."

World-wide reputation

The Grammy and Juno award winning Music Director of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra has a gained a world-wide reputation as a conductor.

The proud Artistic Director of the National Youth Band of Great Britain has also made several guest appearances with the New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Cleveland and Philadelphia Orchestras, as well as the Boston, Chicago, Montreal, Melbourne and Sydney Symphony Orchestras.

Profile

Mark added: "We believe this is not just a major signing for Foden's but also for the profile of brass banding.

As well as conducting Foden's at major championships we are also discussing a number of exciting artistic projects. This announcement cements an on-going 16 year relationship that has produced many memorable performances and recordings.

We are also proud that he has agreed to become the figure head of our association by accepting the role of President."

We are delighted that Bramwell Tovey has accepted our offer to become our new Professional Musical Director and President. He will lead the band at all major contests in 2016 and 2017Foden's Band

Natural affinity

In response, Bramwell Tovey told 4BR: "Ever since I first performed with Foden's back in 2000, I've always felt a natural affinity with them.

The highest standards of musical excellence, combined with their sheer joy at making music means every moment is a pleasure.

Their 2009 recording of my brass band works with Joe Alessi and Mark Fewer remains a personal highlight and I'm very much looking forward to making the journey to Sandbach a little more regularly."