The GUS Band has welcomed the signing of James Harris on bass trombone as they look ahead to a busy second half of 2023.

James joins GUS following successful tenures with Enderby, Foresters Brass and Flowers with whom he helped to a brace of West of England regionals titles, two Butlins Mineworkers victories and the French Open Championship, as well as top six-finishes at Brass in Concert, British Open and National Finals.

Following his tenure with Flowers James took a break from banding to concentrate on his PhD studies at the University of Oxford, before returning on Eb Bass with Wantage in 2022.

Terrific player

Speaking of the appointment, GUS Band Musical Director, Christopher Bond said: "James is a terrific player and we look forward to working with him as we enter an exciting period for the band with 90th anniversary celebrations and the Royal Albert Hall National Final to look forward to".

The band also took the opportunity to thank Alex Crutchley for his outstanding contribution since 2007 and to wish him the best in his future endeavours.