*
banner

Leyland appoint new MD

Jason Katsikaris departs BTM to become new MD at Leyland.

Katsikaris
 

Following the departure of Russell Gray from the MD seat, Leyland has announced the appointment of Jason Katsikaris as its new Musical Director.

At the same time, his previous band BTM has commented on the move and has announced the Australian's replacement for the coming months ahead.

Talent and energy

Leyland Band Chairman Gary Westwood told 4BR: "Jason worked with the band towards the end of 2007 and we immediately recognised his talent and energy. These qualities are exactly what Leyland Band requires to progress in the coming year."

"Looking to the first half of 2008, Leyland has a full concert schedule, a tour to Norway and innovative recording projects, while important contest qualifiers will be a major priority for the band. Everyone at Leyland is extremely excited about our partnership with Jason."

Jason worked with the band towards the end of 2007 and we immediately recognised his talent and energy. These qualities are exactly what Leyland Band requires to progress in the coming yearBand Chairman Gary Westwood

Thrilled

Meanwhile Jason Katsikaris commented to 4BR: "I’m thrilled with the appointment. Leyland is a fine band with a distinguished history. I’m humbled to be leading a band I admired so much as a young musician growing up in Australia."

He added: "I was really impressed with the band when I worked with them before Christmas. There are some wonderful soloists within the ranks and the depth of talent is far-reaching."

Objectives

Jason also set out what he hopes to achieve: "The band and I have set out our objectives for the coming year and I’m extremely determined to realise them."

The Australian will make his debut as Musical Director at the Stroud Brass Band Festival in February. His first contest performance will be at the North West Regional Championships in March.

BTM regret

Meanwhile the appointment has been accepted with regret at the Australian's previous band, BTM.

They told 4BR: "It is with regret, but by mutual consent, that Jason Katsikaris has decided to leave to take up the position of Musical Director with Leyland Band. Jason has conducted BTM Band since February 2006 and is leaving for personal and employment reasons."

Succesful period

Under his baton the Welsh outfit enjoyed a succesful period of contesting success having gained qualification to the Grand Shield in 2006, narrowly missing out on qualification to the Open in 2007 and gaining a credible 7th place at the National Finals last year as well as winning the title of Welsh League Champions 2007.

Thanks

Jeff Hutcherson, Band Manager told 4BR: "We would like to thank Jason for all his hard work and commitment over the past couple of years and wish him well for the future but not too well, especially when we meet Leyland head to head in the Grand Shield!

Jason has told BTM that he is keen to keep in touch and is looking forward to his return to Wales in April when the Band has a number of concerts and CD recordings.

New appointment

For the immediate contesting season, BTM has already announced that of Graham O’Connor will take the Band in the Yeovil and Porthcawl Entertainment Contests as well as the Welsh Regional Contest in Swansea in March. The Band is currently in negotiation with a number of other conductors to take over the MD baton from the Spring.

Jeff Hutcherson concluded: "This is indeed a sad loss for BTM as we have been one of the highest climbers in the 4BR World Rankings, currently standing at 22 at the start of the new season."

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    


Band Supplies

Band Supplies at the British Open

September 6 • Go up and meet one of the best blokes in the banding business world and he will make sure you get all the help you need for the best deals.


4BR Review

Recap on the 4BR British Open preview

September 6 • If you missed the live broadcast British Open preview on 4BR then you can just click and enjoy it gain ahead of the action at Symphony Hall.


Mead

Why not be a judge at the Open this year?

September 6 • If you are following the 'Sar Crossed Lovers' action at Symphony Hall today, let us know who you think has won.


Sterling instruments

Sterling return at British Open Championship

September 6 • A well respected instrument brand will make a welcome return at the British Open this year.


Contest: 171st British Open

Saturday 6 September • Broad Street, Birmingham. B1 2EA


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Saturday 13 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SH


Contest: Lower Sections 1-4 National Finals

Sunday 14 September • Cheltenham Racecourse, Evesham Road, Cheltenham. . *Please note as of 24th August 2023 the date is provisional according to Kapitol Promotions website GL50 4SH


Petworth Town Band - Petworth Town Band at Petworth Heritage weekend

Saturday 20 September • Centre of Petworth Town GU28 OAH


Cheltenham Silver Band - Holst Birthday Concert

Saturday 20 September • All Saints Church, All Saints Road, Pittville, Cheltenham GL52 2HG


Crewe Brass

September 5 • We are looking for FLUGEL player to join our highly motivated 4th section band. We are a very welcoming and sociable band, with a positive outlook and a reasonably busy calendar of engagements. Other enquiries are welcome.


Rushden Town Band

September 2 • 2nd Trombone position has become vacant as current holder off to University. Rehearsals Mondays and Wednesday at Rushden Hall. RTB is a friendly 1st Section band who have recently come back from their second tour abroad and also released their first CD.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

September 2 • Are you moving to the West Midlands this autumn or possibly fancy a change of bandroom scenery? The band are looking to recruit an Eb bass and a Kit Percussionist to help us with our varied and ever expanding range of events.


Sam Fisher

BA (Hons), PGCE, Dip.ABRSM
Conductor, Adjudicator (AoBBA), Composer/Arranger, Cornet & Flugelhorn Soloist


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd