The Leyland Band has announced Stephen Sykes as its new solo trombone player.

Stephen made his debut with Leyland at the North West Area Championships and has recently returned from touring with the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain to assume this full-time position with them.

Accomplished performer

Musical Director Jason Katsikaris told 4BR: "Stephen proved himself as an accomplished performer when he played with the band at the Areas. He performs with an assured sense of style and maturity well beyond his years. Above all, his attitude is exemplary and his dedication to Leyland Band is first rate."

He performs with an assured sense of style and maturity well beyond his years. Above all, his attitude is exemplary and his dedication to Leyland Band is first rateMD Jason Katsikaris

Impressive reputation

16-year-old Stephen has already created an impressive reputation in the brass music scene. He is the current British Open Junior Solo Champion (for the second consecutive year) and is a pupil at Chetham’s School of Music.

He was also a brass finalist in the prestigious 2008 BBC Young Musician of the Year competition. Many brass band aficionados may recognize him as the son of internationally acclaimed tuba soloist, Steven Sykes.

Additions

Leyland Band has also recently signed Andy Moore on first horn. Andy is principal horn of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain and joins with fellow NYBBGB principal, Matthew White, who plays second euphonium in Leyland. Andy previously played with the National Childrens’ Brass Band and, more recently, YBS Band. He is currently tutored by Lynda Nicholson and continues to play with St Helens Youth Band.

Remarkable player

Jason commented: "Andy is a remarkable player with enormous potential. It is a major coup for the band to have this depth of talent throughout its ranks. Both Andy and Leyland Band would like to acknowledge previous incumbent Vicki White who left the band due to personal reasons. We would like to thank Vicki for her efforts and hope that our paths cross again in the future."

Jason continued: "These are exciting times for Leyland. By signing these two young and talented players, the band continues to gather momentum towards achieving its goals in 2008."