Tongwynlais Temperance has announced a number of signings as they look ahead to their forthcoming appearance at the National Finals in London.

Student signings

Chelsea James joins on first horn as she starts her studies at the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama in Cardiff. Another RNCM student, Bethany Lee comes in on second trombone, whilst Ffion Haf Williams joins of flugel horn.

The three talented players comes from different points of the musical compass — Chelsea from Northampton, Bethany from Cornwall and Ffion from west Wales, with Resident Conductor Christopher Bond telling 4BR: "The end of the summer saw us lose two talented players in Reverb Chu, who has moved to the USA and Rhian Hills.

I'm delighted we have been able to fill both positions so swiftly ahead of our appearance at the Albert Hall, and with the addition of Bethany filling our trombone vacancy, I couldn't be happier to work with such talented players."

Experience

In addition, the experienced front bench cornet players Jonathan Mead and Steve Ruck have also joined alongside Andy Wareham and percussionist Joe Rumming. Completing the line up is solo trombone Jo Hirst who makes a welcome return to the band.

We've tried to get the right balance of youth and experience to build a sustainable band and it's now clear we're doing thatBand Chairman Iestyn Davies

Right balance

Band Chairman Iestyn Davies told 4BR: "We would like to thank Rhian and Reverb for their commitment, and wish them every success in their future endeavours.

We've tried to get the right balance of youth and experience to build a sustainable band and it's now clear we're doing that."