Towcester Studio Band has welcomed the signing of Matt Atkinson as their new principal cornet.

Having started his musical career with the Northampton Music & Performing Art Trust (NMPAT) he went on to study at Keele University where he led their band at the UniBrass Championships. Matt also enjoyed a nine-year tenure as principal cornet at Olney Brass as well as playing trumpet with local amateur theatre productions.

Excited

He is no stranger to Towcester having helped out the band on numerous occasions over the last few years, and told 4BR: "I'm excited to take on this role and am eager to contribute my skills and passion to the band."

Matt follows in the footsteps of David Nicholson who has decided to step down from the top-man role to become a valued member of the front row cornet team. He added: "This is great news for the band and such an important signing."

Having worked with Matt in the past I know what a fine player he is and how well he will lead the cornet section. I'm looking forward to working with him againMD, Neil Brownless

Looking forward

The sentiments were echoed by MD Neil Brownless who added: "Having worked with Matt in the past I know what a fine player he is and how well he will lead the cornet section. I'm looking forward to working with him again."

The band also offered its congratulations to Katie Skey, a local Towcester player who has taken on the principal cornet role with the multi-award winning Youth Brass 2000.