Bolton Hoover Band have announced the appointment of Adam Cooke as their Musical Director.

20 year old Adam is reading music at the University of Manchester. He is a trombonist, and has previously held the position of principal trombone with the National Youth Symphony Orchestra of Ireland, the Ulster Youth Orchestra and the Ulster Youth Jazz Orchestra.

Their drive and passion have been evident to me since I first met them, and together we look forward to beginning a new period of success in the band's long and proud history...MD Adam Cooke

University experience

He has been a soloist with the City of Belfast Youth Orchestra and before moving to Manchester in 2006 was playing with the Laganvale (Metal Technology) Band in Belfast.

On moving to Manchester he took up the post of solo trombone with the Besses o'th Barn Band. He is the current Musical Director of the University of Manchester Brass Ensemble, and as well as conducting them through a highly successful home concert season, will take them on their first ever tour later this year.

Drive and passion

Adam told 4BR: "I am delighted to be given the opportunity to work with the Hoover Band. Their drive and passion have been evident to me since I first met them, and together we look forward to beginning a new period of success in the band's long and proud history, commencing with the upcoming area competition."

Breath of fresh air

In the short time Adam has been with the Band, he has impressed all the players with his conducting skills and manner.

Band spokesman Stefan Borszcz told 4BR: "It's like a breath of fresh air with someone who is young and enthusiastic in front of the band. Everyone is excited at the prospect of working with Adam and going from strength to strength."