Slaithwaite Band has announced the appointment of new MD Andrew Baker (above). It follows the resignation of Rob Westacott who has taken on the role of chairman at Brighouse & Rastrick.

Wealth of experience

A spokesperson told 4BR: "We auditioned a number of experienced conductors and considered that Andrew is the one to take the band forward.

He comes with a wealth of musical experience and knowledge. This is a new chapter for Slaithwaite Band, and we look forward to working with him."

He comes with a wealth of musical experience and knowledge. This is a new chapter for Slaithwaite Band, and we look forward to working with himSlaithwaite Band

Over 30 years

Andrew Baker has been involved in banding for over thirty years, has played in and conducted bands at every level, and has worked with the likes of Bramwell Tovey, Roy Newsome, Alan Morrison, Philip Harper and Andrew Berryman.

He studied composition and conducting at the University of Nottingham, with further postgraduate study in Huddersfield, and continues to compose and arrange music on a regular basis.

Recently his work 'Atrium Phase' won the 2014 Foden's composition competition and was performed at the 2015 RNCM Festival of Brass.