The Grange Moor Band has announced the sad departure of two of its key members, who have been very much instrumental in resurrecting the band from the ashes to its current First Section status.

Large hole

David and Marion Matthewman move to Switzerland next month due to work commitments. Although they are leaving behind an established band, they will also be leaving a large hole not just in rehearsals but in the running and organization of the band too.

Both have played at the highest level during their musical careers but chose to return to David’s old local village band that only had half a dozen players in 2001.

They will be sadly missed but we wish them the very best for the future and will always hold the door wide open for them whenever they visit YorkshireGrange Moor Band

Strength to strength

With their help the band registered in the Fourth Section and was placed 3rd at their first contest only six months later. Since then the band has gone from strength to strength and has achieved several respectable contest results, including three consecutive area wins.

Between them they have held most positions in the band over the past seven years.

Positions

Marion, the band’s Secretary, spent 5 years on principal cornet before moving onto flugel in 2006, whilst David has predominantly played solo trombone, but has also had spells on solo baritone, euph, Bb bass, solo horn and solo cornet, as well as sharing his experience on the committee, conducting the second band and teaching beginners on a Saturday morning!

Moving countries has not deterred them in their love of playing and we can confirm that they have already located a local Second Section band in Switzerland to play with.

Open door

A spokesperson for Grange Moor told 4BR: "The band would like thank them both for their hard work and dedication over the past 7 years. They will be sadly missed but we wish them the very best for the future and will always hold the door wide open for them whenever they visit Yorkshire."

On a happier note the band welcome new members; Tim Carlisle and Leisa Mallalieu on front row, Sally Howley on flugel, Neil Glyn on euphonium and Phil Biddlecome on percussion.