*
banner

PLC take over at Roberts Bakery

Mike Jones becomes the new interim resident conductor at Roberts Bakery Band as Paul Lovatt-Cooper takes decision to stand down.

PLC
  Paul has enjoyed considerable success with the band during his six year tenure

Roberts Bakery Band has confirmed that the musical partnership with Musical Director Paul Lovatt-Cooper has come to an end.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Paul is stepping down due to increasing professional commitments and a growing family.

He has made this difficult decision and we would like to take the opportunity to thank him for his musicianship, leadership and dedication over the last six years in leading us to the Championship Section."

They added: "We wish him well and we are delighted that he will continue to be associated with us on future projects."

New lead

The band has confirmed that Mike Jones will take on the role as interim resident conductor.

The vastly experienced Welshman has played at the highest level for many years, including successful tenures at YBS and other leading bands.

He told 4BR: "Paul has been an inspirational MD who has built a band that has a great spirit, huge talent and brilliant determination. It's my job now to carry that on."

Pleasure

Speaking about his decision, Paul told 4BR: "It's been an absolute pleasure working with the players, management team and the Roberts family at the bakery who continue with their amazing support forh the band. 

The decision comes with a heavy heart, but due to my growing professional and family commitments I simply don't have the time to be able to commit to the travel and MD role."

He added: "Mike is a great friend, outstanding musician and conductor. I'd like to wish him, the players and everyone associated with the bakery and band all the very best for the future and I look forward to working with them again at some point."

The decision comes with a heavy heart, but due to my growing professional and family commitments I simply don't have the time to be able to commit to the travel and MD rolePaul Lovatt-Cooper

Thanks

Speaking about the news, Roberts Bakery Band Chairperson, Gareth Broughton added: "I would personally like to thank Paul and wish him well. I am also very pleased to be welcoming Mike to the band to start a new chapter of music making.

We look forward to a bright future working closely with our fantastic sponsor who we thank for their continued support.

We will be working closely with the bakery on several community initiatives and public events over the coming months as we start our process to fill our permanent Musical Director position after the North West Area contest in 2023.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


Cory

Last chord for Cory legends

June 30 • The final notes of a decade of unprecedented success have been delivered by Glyn and Helen Williams at Cory Band.


Hepworth

Report & Result: Red Admiral March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • The wizards of Hepworth pick up yet another march and hymn tune victory as they take the inaugural Red Admiral honours.


Crofton

Result: Wetherby Drovers March & Hymn Tune Contest

June 30 • Crofton Silver drive home with the top prize at Wetherby.


Mnozil

Mnozil Brass booked for Symphony Hall in 2027

June 30 • After their memorable performance in Birmingham on the weekend, over 650 tickets have already been snapped up for their 2027 return.


The Portsmouth Grammar School - Concert by The Black Dyke Band

Saturday 28 June • St Marys Church, Fratton, Portsmouth PO15PA PO15PA


Petworth Town Band - Fete in the Park with Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Grounds of Petworth Park GU28 9LR


Petworth Town Band - Farnham Brass Band and Petworth Town Band

Saturday 28 June • Farnham Carnival


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Billingshurst Carnival

Sunday 29 June • Carnival through Billingshurst and concert at Recreation Ground RH14 9SX


Simon Langton Brass - Deal Memorial Bandstand

Sunday 29 June • The Strand, Walmer, Deal CT14 7DY CT14 7DY


Alder Valley Brass

June 26 • We are looking for BBb bass and soprano cornet players to join our ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (national finalists 2023) with a good blend of concerts, engagements and contests. Rehearsals Mondays and Thursdays 8-10pm in Farnham, Surrey.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

June 25 • With a varied upcoming programme of events and following on from our successful "Musicals" concert and first ever trip to Saddleworth for Whit Friday, the band requires an Eb Bass player to join our group.


Alder Valley Brass

June 24 • As a result of a relocation we seek a Musical Director. We are an ambitious, busy and sociable 2nd section band (L&SC, National finalists 2023) with a blend of engagements, concerts and contests. We rehearse 8-10pm on Mondays and Thursdays in Farnham


Alan Fernie

DRSAM, Dip.NCOS
Arranger, composer, adjudicator, conductor


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd