After 11 years of inspirational leadership, Bruce Wallace has stepped down from his role as MD of Granite City Brass.

Under his guidance, the band based in Aberdeen has thrived, achieving success in both concert and competition settings — winning the Scottish Championship First Section title in 2014 and gaining a trio of podium finishes since.

Step back

4BR was informed that he has decided to take a step back from the week-to-week responsibilities, opting for a well-deserved break.

However, he remains committed to the brass band community and hopes to continue offering his expertise to help bands with their contest preparations in the future.

Terrific

He told 4BR: "The last decade has been as enjoyable as it has formative. Granite City Brass Band is not only full of terrific musicians but the loveliest of people and I'm proud of what we've accomplished together.

While I'm taking a step back, I still look forward to the cut and thrust of competitive banding and hope to support the band in their future preparations."

The last decade has been as enjoyable as it has formative. Granite City Brass Band is not only full of terrific musicians but the loveliest of people and I'm proud of what we've accomplished togetherBruce Wallace

Final appearance

The combination will make their final appearance together at the upcoming First Section Scottish Championship in Perth.

A spokesperson for the band added: "Though Bruce is stepping away from his regular role, his passion for brass music remains strong, and his contributions to Granite City Brass will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.

He has been instrumental in ensuring stability over the last decade, taking us to several podium finishes, delivering some of our best results and arguably some of our best performances.

The band is going to miss his leadership and guidance, but thank him for leaving us in such a strong position for the future which we can now build on."