Despite having to cancel its most recent rehearsal due to the heavy snowfall that saw traffic stranded on the Heads of the Valleys road in South Wales, Welsh Champion Tredegar is looking ahead to a busy start to the New Year as they prepare for their performance at the RNCM International Brass Band Festival in Manchester.

150th anniversary

2026 marks the band's 150th anniversary, a landmark that will celebrated with the release of a major new recording of Gavin Higgins' 'Concerto for Brass Band and Orchestra', which has been undertaken with the National Orchestra of Wales under the baton of Ryan Bancroft.

In a significant change in its management structure, long serving cornet player David Thomas will also lead the band's commercial business approach, building on the success spearheaded in his previous role as Band Chairperson.

He recently made his final concert appearance where a presentation was made to mark his outstanding playing service.

Shaping future

In marking the occasion, MD, Ian Porthouse told 4BR: "Dai has been the beating heart of this band. His dedication, especially given his worldwide work commitments has been nothing short of incredible over the years, and although we will miss his playing we're all delighted that he remains an integral part in shaping our future."

In response, the player told 4BR: "My work means that taking this decision ensures I can still support the band in a different, professional way.

It also means I can carry on playing with Pontardulais Band — enjoying my playing without worrying about racing up the Heads of the Valleys road to get to band on time from flights across the globe."

The band has also welcomed the new signing of Josie Taylor on cornet, who will make her official concert debut at the RNCM later this month.