Grimethorpe Colliery Band has announced the appointment of Steve Phillips as its new Resident Musical Director.

4BR was informed that it follows an intensive application process with the University of Salford graduate emerging as the "outstanding candidate"from the considered applicants.

Outstanding candidate

Speaking about the appointment, Band Manager Richard Windle said: "We're delighted to welcome Steve. He was the outstanding candidate and we're looking forward to working with him.

We had over 25 applications, many of whom offered us very strong credentials. However, following two rounds of auditions Steve stood out as the conductor that we believe will help us achieve our future ambitions."

Thrilled

Speaking about his appointment, Steve Phillips said: "I'm thrilled to be working with such a talented group of musicians and a band with such a rich heritage.

It's exciting to see the plans the band has for the future, and I look forward to contributing my skills to the team and seeing what we can achieve together."

Whit Friday return

With rehearsals already under way, he will now lead Grimethorpe in their busy diary of concerts — as well as making a welcome return to the Whit Friday march contests, which the band will compete at for the first time in many years.

The new conductor has a Salvation Army background and specialised in conducting when studying for his BA and MA at the University of Salford under Roy Newsome and David King.

I'm thrilled to be working with such a talented group of musicians and a band with such a rich heritageSteve Phillips

Experience

A talented euphonium player he spent tenures at UES Stocksbridge, Sellers International and Carlton Main Frickley Colliery bands and toured several times with the Young Ambassadors Brass Band of Great Britain.

As a conductor he has worked with top sections bands in Yorkshire, Midlands, and the South East.

Married with two children, he is a Headteacher and Ofsted Inspector and has worked abroad in Germany and Malaysia. He and his wife Sonja also provide a foster home for children who are unable to live with their birth families and who may have experienced trauma or difficulty in their lives.