The Fairey Band has announced the appointment of Jonathan Beatty as their new Musical Director.

The experienced musician has been a professional musician for over 25 years, playing with some of the country's leading ensembles, including the Orchestra of Opera North, the Royal Ballet and the Royal Northern Sinfonia. He also enjoyed a 15 year period with Grimethorpe as principal trombone.

Success

Jonathan is a lecturer in performance at the University of Huddersfield and directs both its brass band and Symphonic Wind Ensemble, playing a key role in the continued development of brass musicianship at the university.

More recently he enjoyed considerable conducting success with the likes of Dinnington Colliery, Hade Edge and the University of Huddersfield Band, with the appointment reigniting a long-standing musical relationship with Fairey professional conductor Garry Cutt, which started when they worked together at Grimethorpe in the 1990s.

It's a fantastic opportunity to work with one of the country's most successful bands and especially with Garry CuttJonathan Beatty

Fantastic opportunity

Speaking to 4BR, Jonathan said: "It's a fantastic opportunity to work with one of the country's most successful bands and especially with Garry Cutt.

To be able to have an input into their future musical development is a huge privilege. They have a fantastic work ethic and a team of excellent players."

In response Garry added: "This is a great appointment for the band. I have the highest regard for Jonathan as a musician and he has so much to offer Fairey."