Howard Taylor, the Musical Director of Brisbane Excelsior Band has been appointed Director of the Conservatorium Brass Band within the Brass Faculty of Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University in Australia.

Major study

University Associate Professor Peter Luff, Deputy Director (Performance & Engagement) told 4BR: "In 2006 the Queensland Conservatorium launched the brass band as a major study element of the Bachelor of Music programme. The initiative finally allowed for brass band instrumentalists to study music at tertiary level — a first in Australia."

The Conservatorium Brass Band comprises students from all areas of the brass and percussion departments. The ensemble has been a regular feature of the QCGU concert calendar since 2006, and after a short hiatus will return under the multiple-award winning conductor.

Griffith University has so much to offer and not just because of its location. Anyone from across the brass band world should consider studying hereHoward Taylor

No better place

He told 4BR: "There is no place better to come and study brass music than in Brisbane. Griffith University has so much to offer and not just because of its location. Anyone from across the brass band world should consider studying here."

Howard has won 13 National Championship titles in Australia and New Zealand, whilst his ground-breaking work with bands includes regular trips to Tonga where he started the first National Youth Band of Tonga in 2016.

He will be returning thee in July for the week-long birthday celebrations of King Tupou VI.

He holds a Master of Music from the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University and recently starting the Queensland Conducting Academy.