Tredegar has announced the signing of Ben Stratford as their new solo baritone.

The fourth year Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama student joins from Flowers Band with immediate effect, and will make his competitive debut at the forthcoming European Brass Band Championships in Ostend. He takes over the role from Jack Lapthorn who is moving to Guildford to take up a new teaching role later in the year.

Marquee signing

Tredegar MD, Ian Porthouse told 4BR: "This is a real marquee signing for us. Ben is wonderful player who I've admired for a long time. He brings a great deal of top flight experience and artistic flair to an increasingly important role within a top flight band."

He added: "Our thanks and best wishes go to Jack who has been an integral part of our success over recent years and wish him well as he looks forward to an exciting new chapter in his career."

Tredegar has such a positive musical outlook and a number of exciting projects which I hope to be a part of — starting with the European Championships in a few weeks timeBen Stratford

Ideal move

Meanwhile, Ben told 4BR: "This an ideal move for me at an ideal time. I enjoyed six and half wonderful years at Flowers and thank MD Paul Holland and everyone there for what they have helped me achieve.

Tredegar has such a positive musical outlook and a number of exciting projects which I hope to be a part of — starting with the European Championships in a few weeks time."