Russell Gray has spoken to 4BR about his pride at recently being awarded the prestigious Iles Medal.

The presentation was made to the Scottish conductor from the Worshipful Company of Musicians at the Royal Albert Hall before the announcement of the results of the National Championship of Great Britain in recognition for his services to the brass band movement.

Respected

One of the busiest and most respected professional freelance conductors, he has gained a worldwide reputation for his work — including teaching roles as Adjunct Professor at Queensland Conservatorium of Music in Australia, leadership as President of the Association of Brass Band Conductors, and as professional conductor of the National Youth Band of Scotland and the Cambrian Philharmonic Orchestra amongst others.

He is currently the professional Musical Director of the Reg Vardy Band, has worked with numerous professional ensembles and brass bands at all levels, and remains a much sought after cornet soloist.

Proudest moments

"It was one of the proudest moments of my musical career,"he admitted as he got ready to board a flight to work in the USA.

"I'm very conscious of the list of people who have been honoured with the Iles Medal for their achievements and to join them as the 2016 recipient was humbling.

As I received the award I was also reminded of the love and commitment of my family to help me on my way — from all those years ago as a young cornet player in Scotland to being fortunate enough to win the National Championship here at the Royal Albert Hall and beyond."

I've been passionate about my music making throughout my career and hope that I've been able to give something back to a movement that has given me so many fantastic opportunitiesRussell Gray

Passionate

He added: "I've been passionate about my music making throughout my career and hope that I've been able to give something back to a movement that has given me so many fantastic opportunities.

Working with young players and conductors as well as with professional musicians through my association with Yamaha is something I'm really proud of and hope to continue for many years to come.

The presentation was a wonderful personal moment of course, but I was conscious of the fact that I would not have been able to even be considered for such a prestigious award without the support of my family."