The Cory Band has announced the signing of David Hale as their new assistant principal cornet.

"One of the best cornet players in the business,"according to MD Philip Harper, the Welshman will work closely with principal cornet Tom Hutchinson — reuniting a musical partnership they enjoyed at Rothwell Temperance, where David was a former principal cornet.

Delighted

The former Tredegar, Black Dyke, Rothwell, Sellers and more latterly Flowers cornet player has an extensive CV of top level achievements, and told 4BR he was delighted to accept the invitation to join the world's number 1 ranked band after appearing with them when they won the European title in Lille earlier this year.

"I'm absolutely thrilled to be joining Cory,"he said. "They are a band with so much history, tradition and above all, a performance level of the very highest quality. It's hard work, but I'm enjoying all the extra practice and commitment required."

No hesitation

He added: "I had no hesitation in accepting Philip's invitation, but I'd also like to thank my wife and daughter for supporting me and allowing me to pursue my banding goals.

It's also great to be performing with a band from my home nation, and I look forward hopefully to winning another Grand Slam!"

David was part of the Black Dyke band that won a memorable 'Grand Slam' of major titles in 1995 and for the past seven years had enjoyed further success with Flowers.

Vital part

Cory MD Philip Harper added: "The last year has been a remarkably stable period for Cory regarding personnel. Dai is the first new player we have had for twelve months, which is testament to the incredible commitment and sacrifice shown by everyone in the team.

He added: "What a player to bring in though! He was a vital part in us winning the European in Lille and I've been so impressed with everything which he brings to the table: brilliant playing, a first-class attitude and commitment and a fabulously encouraging and nurturing approach to our younger players. We've all enjoyed welcoming him on board."

What a player to bring in though! He was a vital part in us winning the European in Lille and I've been so impressed with everything which he brings to the tablePhilip Harper

More signings

Philip revealed that the signing will not be last for the band though.

"We will have another couple of changes to personnel in the Autumn,"he said. "I'd also like to pay tribute to Adrian Williams who was, until recently, was assistant principal to Tom.

Adrian is not leaving the band, although he is stepping back as a full-time player as he is no longer able to commit 100%, which is a demand of membership of Cory.

Adrian is a great player who is just as much at home on soprano as he is on solo cornet — a real asset to us."

Proms Night

Cory Band will play at the Welsh Proms this evening (Friday 22nd July) at St. David's Hall, Cardiff before starting up again after a summer break with concerts on the Isle of Wight on Saturday 27th August, and in Guildford on Sunday 28th August.