Lostock Hall Memorial Band has confirmed the appointment of Joe Murtagh as its new Musical Director.

Having started his banding journey in North Wales, he went on the gain extensive playing experience with Conwy Town Band before studying at the RNCM in Manchester.

He then enjoyed cornet tenures with Besses o' th' Barn. Tyldesley, Grimethorpe, Black Dyke and Foden's and was the principal cornet of both the RNCM Brass Band and the National Youth Brass Band of Wales.

Conducting experience

He started his conducting with Whitworth Vale & Healey Youth Band, where he remained for six years before taking the MD role with Hoover Bolton Band. He will now make his contesting debut with Lostock at the Second Section National Final at York Barbican in September.

Looking forward

A band spokesperson stated: "We are really looking forward to working with Joe and look forward to taking to the stage with him for his first engagement at the National Championships in York."