UNISON Kinneil Band has announced the appointment of Chris Shanks as their new Resident Conductor, with Raymond Tennant appointed to the post of Musical Director.

Chris, who plays euphonium with Scottish champion Whitburn, Bellshill Salvation Army Band and the Salvation Army Household Troops Band, has a great deal of conducting experience, recently enjoying a successful spell as MD with Broxburn & Livingston.

Blown away

A Band spokesperson told 4BR: "We were blown away by Chris' enthusiasm, musicality, leadership and structured approach to rehearsals and we are delighted to appoint him."

Meanwhile, Raymond Tennant has been appointed as Musical Director for appearances at the 2017 Scottish Open as well as the 2018 Scottish Championship and Spring Festival.

His association reaches back to 1995 when he led them to victory at the inaugural Land O' Burns competition. More recently, he led the band to sixth place at the Senior Trophy.

We are sure that Chris and Raymond will make a perfect conducting teamUNISON Kinneil

Thrilled

The spokesperson added: "We are thrilled to invite Raymond back. The band responded wonderfully to his direction at the Senior Trophy and we are all looking forward to working with such a talented and experienced Musical Director.

We are sure that Chris and Raymond will make a perfect conducting team."