Foden's have acted quickly to fill their solo euphonium vacancy following the departure of David Thornton to Brighouse & Rastrick, with confirmation that Black Dyke's Gary Curtin will move from Queensbury to Sandbach to take on the role from January.

Sheer joy

Gary told 4BR: "My time at Black Dyke has genuinely been a dream come true. To achieve so much with the band; winning contests and a number of solo prizes, as well as taking part in so many brilliant concerts has been a sheer joy."

He added: "With getting married next year and life moving on, it's time to make some changes especially in regard to the amount of time I spend on the road.

Foden's is very close to where I live and following the departure of David Thornton I spoke to Band Manager Mark Wilkinson and I decided that it was the right time to make the move.

I'm looking forward to becoming part of the band's future plans; working with Bramwell Tovey and Michael Fowles as well as being part of the exciting initiatives and projects that they already have in place."

I'm looking forward to becoming part of the band's future plans; working with Bramwell Tovey and Michael Fowles as well as being part of the exciting initiatives and projects that they already have in placeGary Curtin

One person we wanted

Meanwhile, Foden's Band Manager Mark Wilkinson added: "When the solo euphonium position became vacant there was only one person that we wanted.

Gary is undoubtedly one of the world's leading euphonium stars, with such a proven track record. Everyone associated with Foden's is delighted that he has agreed to join."