Chris Jeans takes baton at GUS Band

The acclaimed trombone soloist takes on the role of Artistic Director of Music with Midlands champion, GUS Band

The highly respected Chris Jeans will take on the Artistic Director role at GUS Band.

Tuesday, 27 November 2018

The internationally acclaimed trombone player Chris Jeans has been appointed as the new Artistic Director of Music of the GUS Band

He takes on a role that has a remarkable lineage — from the historic giants of William Halliwell, Harry Mortimer and Stanley Boddington to the latter day incumbents such as Geoffrey Brand, Bramwell Tovey and John Berryman.

He takes over from Adam Cooke who announced his departure in September after five successful years at the helm to take on a new career move in Norway.

Hugely respected

For the past 15 years, Chris has held the principal trombone seat at the band, working under a list of outstanding conductors, and has also gained a hugely respected reputation as a conductor of the all-conquering Youth Brass 2000 Band, who has led to multiple UK and European title successes.

An artistic ambassador for Antoine Courtois Instruments he has won many individual awards, including accolades at Brass in Concert and the All England Masters.

Thrilled

Band Chairman, Dave Elliot-Smith told 4BR: "We're thrilled that Chris has accepted the role. His inspiration, motivation, drive, determination and passion for making music is welcomed and we are excited to enter a new era in our history with him at the helm."

In response Chris added: "I've been overwhelmed by the messages of congratulations from around the banding world since the news was revealed.

I consider it a great honour to be appointed to the role with a band that has such a worldwide reputation for excellence.

The names of those who have conducted this great band are legendary, and with an exciting blend of youth and experience I'm determined the name of GUS will remain at the forefront of elite banding."

I consider it a great honour to be appointed to the role with a band that has such a worldwide reputation for excellenceChris Jeans

Progress

He added: "My enthusiasm to progress and add further honours with GUS is undimmed and we are already working towards our first contesting goal together at the Butlins Mineworkers Championship in Skegness in January."

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