The Fairey Band has announced two new signings as they prepare for their appearance at the high profile RNCM Brass Band Festival later this month.

The experienced Jon Davies returns as principal EEb tuba, whilst rising star Owain Llestyn comes in on repiano cornet.

Signings

Jon returns to top-flight banding with the Stockport band after a break due to work commitments and following an enjoyable tenure at YBS Band.

Meanwhile, Owain Llestyn signs from Northop Band, following a well worn trail east that has in the recent past been taken by his former teacher and Fairey principal cornet, Paul Hughes. Owen, who is regarded as one of Welsh banding's most promising players, is also the principal cornet of the National Youth Band of Wales.

It's great to be able to welcome someone of his quality back to the band room as well as such a great young talent in OwainMD, Garry Cutt

Welcome

Fairey professional MD Garry Cutt told 4BR: "John is not only regarded as one of the best tuba players in the country, but he is a Fairey's man.

It's great to be able to welcome someone of his quality back to the band room as well as such a great young talent in Owain.

He's been playing with us since November and it's clear he's a star in the making. His maturity is wonderful — not just as a player but also a bandsman who dedicated to catch two trains and a bus to get to band."