The Friendly Band has announced the musical partnership with Ashley Griffin as their first Composer in Residence.

He has already completed his first commission for the band which will feature in a concert later this year, and there are already two other works in the pipeline.

Worldwide

Ashley, who studied trombone performance and composition at Leeds College of Music has already had his music performed all over the world including notable performances by the Amsterdam Staff Band and the Japan Staff Band of the Salvation Army.

He told 4BR: "I'm really excited to have this opportunity with the Friendly Band and am looking forward to hearing the first of my pieces in the near future as well as collaborating on some very interesting projects in 2020."

We're thrilled to be able to be amongst a small group of bands bringing new music into the movement and promoting the next generation of composersFriendly Band

Thrilled

In response, a Band spokesperson added: "We're thrilled to be able to be amongst a small group of bands bringing new music into the movement and promoting the next generation of composers.

We're also delighted to be able to give the world premiere of 'Laude' at our concert later this year."