Scottish champion Whitburn will return to the major contesting stage at the National Championship in London next month boosted by the arrival of two new signings.
Jason Hou joins on solo euphonium after relocating to Scotland, whilst Sam Duzinkewycz takes on the solo horn role after joining from Unite Scotland Kinneil.
Solo euphonium
Jason, who is from Beijing, has been studying at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire with Chris Robertson as well as at the RNCM with Steven Mead and David Thornton, and played with Milnrow and Hawk Green. He has also performed with the Beijing Wind Orchestra and Hong Kong Brass Band.
Speaking about his appointment, he said: "I feel incredibly honoured, as I believe I will be the first Chinese musician to perform at the UK National Championships. This is a very special milestone for me, both personally and as a Chinese brass musician.
From the very first time I came into contact with Whitburn I could feel the incredible passion within the band and everyone's genuine love for music. I'm very happy to be part of such a wonderful musical family, and joining Whitburn genuinely feels like a dream come true."
Solo horn
Meanwhile, Sam started with Tullis Russell Youth Band, taking the solo horn seat with the senior band aged just 17. A former Fife Young Musician of the Year, he also progressed through the National Youth Band of Scotland organisation before joining Kinneil.
He added: "I'm incredibly honoured to have been asked to join Whitburn. It's a band with a massive reputation and a busy calendar of exciting gigs which I'm looking forward to being part of.
Having never played at the Nationals, I'm excited to get stuck into the piece and fulfil one of my childhood dreams playing on one of the biggest stages in banding. I'm also sad to be leaving Kinneil. I'm very grateful for their support over the past six years and for the friends I've made as a result."
Welcome
In welcoming the new signings, Whitburn Chairperson Charlie Farren said: "We're delighted that Jason and Sam have joined us."
