This weekend's National Final will mark the final curtain call for GUS Band's long serving solo horn player, Nathan Waterman.

Nathan first joined the then Rigid Container Group Band on solo horn in 1991, a seat he held for 7 years before taking a playing break in 1998.

Impressive

He later rejoined in 2007 and has since notched up an impressive 20 years of total service. He will make his 14th National Final appearance on the weekend before taking on the role as MD of Thrapston Band.

He took the difficult decision during the summer to step down from the role with the experienced Simon Smith, who has also notched over 20 years with the Midlanders, taking over from him.

Soloistic flair

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "This effectively means that for the last 28 years only two players have occupied the solo horn chair with the GUS Band.

Simon has already reminded everyone that he hasn't lost his soloistic flare though, having played solo horn for our last two concerts and being a featured soloist!"

Nathan will remain as an active trustee of the band and everyone at GUS would like to wish him the best of luck with his recent appointment as MD with his first band at ThrapstonGUS Band

Huge impression

Nathan added: "Being part of GUS has made a huge impression on my musical life — especially with lifelong friendships made. I'd like to give a special mention to John Berryman who has been both a close friend and mentor throughout my playing career"

The band spokesperson added: "Nathan will remain as an active trustee of the band and everyone at GUS would like to wish him the best of luck with his recent appointment as MD with his first band at Thrapston."