Grimethorpe Colliery Band has announced via its Facebook page that they have appointed Phillip McCann to lead them at the forthcoming Brass in Concert Championship and the 2017 Yorkshire Area Championship, as well the high profile RNCM Brass Band Festival.

Delighted

They stated: "The band are delighted to announce the appointment of Phillip McCann for their upcoming appearances at Brass in Concert, Festival of Brass and the Yorkshire Area Championships.

We will 'together' aim for the stars and with hard work, commitment and belief in each other, hopefully reach the moon! I have such enthusiasm for 2017Phillip McCann

Humbled

Phillip is reported as stating: "I am at heart just a bandsman, and I truly feel both humbled and honoured to be appointed Professional Conductor to one of the truly great bands in our movement.

I am looking forward with great excitement to work with and make music with such an extremely talented group of musicians, some of the finest instrumentalists in the brass band movement.

We will 'together' aim for the stars and with hard work, commitment and belief in each other, hopefully reach the moon! I have such enthusiasm for 2017."

We will 'together' aim for the stars and with hard work, commitment and belief in each other, hopefully reach the moon! I have such enthusiasm for 2017Phillip McCann

Grant for concerts

It was announced that Brian Grant is to continue his role as Associate Conductor, and will be directing the band in all concerts.