The GUS Band has announced that composer and producer Mike Sheppard has accepted the invitation to become their new Composer in Residence.

Premieres

2019 has already seen Mike produce world premiere works for Foden's, Brighouse & Rastrick and Steven Mead, as well as writing a new work for GUS Band's flugel Della Pearce, premiered at the recent Bolsover International Brass Band Summer School.

Equally at home with classical, jazz, pop or choral music he has published works choirs, orchestra and jazz ensembles, with his brass band repertoire soon to be published on the Hal Leonard label.

His 2011 album 'The Soul Rests Eternal' has been featured as Radio 3's 'Presenter's Choice' and Classic FM's 'Sunday Best'.

I'm looking forward to this collaboration which I'm sure will herald a great new era of music making and innovationArtistic Director, Chris Jeans

Innovative new era

GUS Band Artistic Director Chris Jeans told 4BR: "I'm looking forward to this collaboration which I'm sure will herald a great new era of music making and innovation.

It will also help propel us forward in our preparation for our forthcoming engagements, as well as next year's CD recording with World of Brass."

In response, Mike commented: "I'm bursting with new ideas for scores and I can't wait to get to know the band so that I can tailor music specifically for their talents."