Sykes takes Forest baton

Stephen Sykes takes on his first full time conducting appointment at Forest of Dean Brass.

Stephen Sykes is welcomed on board by Forest of Dean Brass

Saturday, 07 December 2019

Forest of Dean Brass has announced the appointment of trombonist Stephen Sykes as their new MD.

The former BBC Radio 2 Brass Soloist of the Year Takes on the role with immediate effect with a band spokesperson telling 4BR: "We are looking ahead to a great future under Stephen's leadership.

His musicality, professionalism and experience is a great asset to the band as we look to build on the past two years led by Bryn James."

Success

Stephen studied at the RWCM&D in Cardiff and performed with the likes of Tredegar, Fairey and Black Dyke as well as enjoying a successful freelance career.

He has also overcome the challenges of a diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma, and after many years of treatment and with great support from his family friends and colleagues in the banding world in March 2018 he underwent a PET-CT scan which confirmed he was cancer-free.

This is his first full time conducting appointment, although he has thoroughly enjoyed conducting Burnham & Highbridge, Weston Brass and Midsomer Norton & Radstock Silver Band.

Joining as Musical Director is a personal milestone in my recovery, but is also offers an exciting opportunity to improve on solid foundations on both the concert and contest stageStephen Sykes

Exciting opportunity

He told 4BR: "Forest of Dean is a fine band with a rich history. Joining as Musical Director is a personal milestone in my recovery, but is also offers an exciting opportunity to improve on solid foundations on both the concert and contest stage."

He added: "I hope to build a complete concert season for the band, both locally and further afield, as well as build the band's reputation on the contest stage — starting with a solid showing at the Welsh Open in February."

Huge impression

Speaking about the appointment, Band Vice-Chairman, Roger Stratford added: "It's great to welcome Stephen to the band and his mix of infectious enthusiasm and detailed musicality has already made a huge impression."

The new partnership can be heard in action for the first time at Lydney Town hall on Sunday 8th December (7.30pm).

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