*
banner

Hillary appointment brings anniversary excitement for Poynton

Acclaimed video game conductor Tom Hillary brings excitement to 200th celebrations for VBS (Poynton).

Hillary
  Tom Hillary has been appointed as the new MD of VBS (Poynton)

There are exciting times ahead for Vernon Building Society (Poynton) Band as they embark on their 200th anniversary celebrations in 2025.

It sees the appointment of a new Musical Director, Tom Hillary, who comes to the North West band having made a hugely respected name for himself in the video game and film industry.

Skilled

Described by 'Crash Bandicoot' video game composer Josh Mancell as a "skilled and nuanced maestro", he has brought an acclaimed style to his orchestral-crossover performances and his championing of rarely-heard compositions.

Band Manager Vicky Penney told 4BR: "Tom's reputation for conducting video game scores is widely acknowledged and respected in one of the fastest growing music sectors in the world.

He is also widely recognised for strong collaborations with both established and emerging composers, directors and producers worldwide, so you can appreciate how excited we are to welcome him to the band."

Perfect fit

Penney added: "It was clear when we met him for the first time that his musicality, passion and experience would be a great fit for Poynton and we look forward to him challenging us and bringing his outstanding musical direction."

In response, Tom told 4BR: "I'm thrilled to be joining the band to collaborate with such a talented group of musicians, and I'm eager to guide them back to the heights they deserve.

It's going to be an exciting bicentennial year, and to build upon their rich tradition of excellence whilst also embracing fresh musical horizons. I look forward to an inspiring journey ahead, working together to create something truly special with this historic band."

It's going to be an exciting bicentennial year, and to build upon their rich tradition of excellence whilst also embracing fresh musical horizonsTom Hillary

Thanks

The band also took the opportunity to thank Adam Delbridge-Smith who worked so well with them over the past two years.

In response he said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure as Musical Director. It's been a privilege to lead such a dedicated and talented group, especially as we rebuilt and achieved new milestones together.

Being a part of their 200-year history has been such an honour and I am excited to see how the band continues to grow and thrive under its new leadership with Tom."

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    


Competiton

Conductors prepare to claim Final berths

June 28 • The semi-finalists at the Brass Band Conductors Association Conducting Competition will be looking to book their place in the final this evening in Halifax.


Mnozil Brass

Choir pews only for Mnozil

June 28 • If you want to see Mnozil Brass tonight in Birmingham then be prepared to sit in the choir.


Russell Gray

Gray Pops in to CBS news...

June 28 • Russell Gray recently appeared on Minnesota CBS News in the USA to give a plug for the start of the Minneapolis Pop Concert series he is leading.


Foden's Armagh

Foden's stars to lead in Armagh once again

June 28 • Players from Foden's Band will continue to help inspire players of all ages and abilities in Armagh in August.


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


Andy Wareham

BMus (Hons), MMus (Hons)
Conductor, Composer, Brass Tutor, Musicologist


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd