Mareika Gray has been appointed the new Chairperson of the National Association of Brass Band Conductors (NABBC).

Obvious choice

NABBC Secretary James Holt told 4BR: "Mareika has done so much within the banding movement and was the obvious choice to approach about the position.

We are delighted that she accepted the invitation to attend our recent Annual General Meeting and to accept the role."

James added: "I know all at the association would like to place on record their thanks to outgoing Chairperson Andrew White who has served us so admirably during his tenure."

Success

Mareika Gray has gained a well merited reputation as a conductor in recent years — leading a number of bands to success at various levels in the UK, Europe and Australia. She recently worked with Bramwell Tovey on the Summer Course of the National Youth Band of Great Britain.

She has also played with Brisbane Excelsior, Sola Brass Band in Norway and the Ransome Band and has been regularly engaged at a number of high profile events as an adjudicator — most recently at the Dutch National Championships.

I'm delighted to be able to take on this important role and look forward to ensuring the NABBC provides a strong network of support to fellow conductors throughout the banding worldMareika Gray

Delighted

Mareika told 4BR: "I'm delighted to be able to take on this important role and look forward to ensuring the NABBC provides a strong network of support to fellow conductors throughout the banding world.

Our flagship event will be the annual conducting competition, one which continues to grow in importance and success, and I also hope to give the Association a strong voice in working with leading arts bodies, contest and banding organisations."