After more than 20 years as conductor of Coleshill Town Band, Stephen Fagg has stepped down from his role as musical director.

When appointed, Stephen was the youngest MD in the band's history — although he now also boasts the record of being its longest serving.

Messiah

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "Over the two decades Stephen has significantly raised the band's aspirations and standards through wonderfully inventive concerts, musical projects and competition success — including three consecutive performances of Handel's 'Messiah', complete with four vocal soloists and a choir of 50."

Huge part

That also remains one of many highlights for Stephen himself, as he told 4BR: "Stepping down as MD was the hardest decision I have ever had to make, as the band has been a huge part of my life for 20 years.

However, the time has come where I need to finish while both myself and the band are happy and healthy, and I leave with so many amazing memories — including those performances of 'Messiah' — which for a Fourth Section band was quite incredible."

The time has come where I need to finish while both myself and the band are happy and healthy, and I leave with so many amazing memories — including those performances of 'Messiah'Stephen Fagg

Inspirational

Regarded as an inspirational figure to those who have worked with him, Stephen will continue to conduct the organisation's flourishing youth set-up, which he set up just over a decade ago, and which now provides a wonderful steam of talent for the organisation.

He added: "By continuing to lead and develop the youth set-up I hope to ensure the future of the senior band by developing generations of players to come."