Grimethorpe Colliery Band has announced that they will directed by Cpt Sam Hairsine at this year's Brass in Concert championship.

Having worked successfully with the Director of Music of the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines, CTCRM earlier this year, the 16 time winner of the event was keen to engage with him again to once again bring an innovative edge to their Sage Gateshead appearance.

Energise

A band spokesperson said: "Sam provides us with a different and fresh approach, which we are confident, will energise our performance."

They added: "Grimethorpe has always prided itself on its investment in outstanding talent. It now has a healthy mix of youth and experience in the band, so with Sam at the helm we are looking forward to Brass in Concert with huge enthusiasm."

Delighted

In response Cpt Hairsine added: "I'm absolutely delighted to have been invited to conduct. It's a very exciting project and a real privilege to be able to link up with them, especially in their centenary year.

They have a wonderful heritage, and it's an honour to work with such a high-calibre group of musicians."

Sam provides us with a different and fresh approach, which we are confident, will energise our performanceGrimethorpe Colliery Band

Worldwide experience

Currently the Director of Music of the Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines, CTCRM, Cpt Hairsine was a choral scholar as well as keen euphonium player, becoming a member of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain. He went on to play with a number of top level bands before joining the Royal Marines Band Service, where he also played the cello.

His military career has seen him perform all around the world and he recently completed his Master's programme at the RNCM under Clark Rundell and Mark Heron.