*
banner

Cory lose Ibbotson

Star soprano to bow out with European Champions after London finale.

Ibbotson
 

European Champions Cory have announced the resignation of their star soprano player Michelle Ibbotson.

Distance

Musical Director Bob Childs commented to 4BR: "I never really expected Michelle to stay with us for as long as she has with the distance from her home to Cory being so great. However, her decision to re-enter the teaching profession full time makes it impossible for her to continue attending mid-week practises here in Wales."

Terrific

Bob was full of praise for the player who has been an integral part of the Welsh bands success in recent years: "She is a super player, great bandperson, and a loyal friend. Her terrific playing has contributed enormously to the band's high standard and all of the Cory Band wish her and her lovely family well. I personally hope she carries on playing in some capacity or other."

Her terrific playing has contributed enormously to the band's high standard and all of the Cory Band wish her and her lovely family wellCory MD, Bob Childs

Hardest decision

Meanwhile, Michelle told 4BR: "It has been one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make. I've loved the last three and a half years with the band; they are probably the nicest group of people I've ever had the privilege of knowing."

Talented

Michelle has both enjoyed her playing and made a new family of friends in South Wales. "They're a fantastically talented and hard working band who made me feel welcome from the very start. It has been an honour to work with Bob Childs who I consider not only to be one of the finest MD's in the business but also a great friend and simply an inspirational person."

Family support

Michelle added: "The fact I've been able to travel the 450 mile round trip to Cory every week is down to the huge amount of support I've had from my husband Mark, my parents and my parents in law.

"They've been fantastic in helping with my two children and encouraging me to continue. I would also like to give a huge thanks to Lorraine Childs who always made me and my family so welcome in her home and cared for Oliver and Charlotte when I was at band. In conclusion I would like to thank everyone at the Cory band and wish them every success for the future."

Michelle's last performance with Cory will be at the National Championships in the Royal Albert Hall later this month.

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    


Royal Albert Hall

Countdown previews of Symphony in Two Movements

October 5 • There will be a chance to hear how the competitors are getting on with their 'Symphony in Two Movements' preparations ahead of the Royal Albert National Final...


Foden

Foden's set for Regent Hall preview ahead of Albert Hall challenge

October 5 • Foden's Band will be joined by Mike Lovatt for their traditional Regent Hall pre-National preview next weekend.


Steph Wilshaw

Wilshaw looks to boost Audley Community

October 5 • Steph Wilshaw has been appointed the new Musical Director of Audley Community Band.


Fountain City Brass Band

Report & Result: 2025 United States Brass Invitational

October 5 • Fountain City takes the honours in Texas as a new event looks to further boost brass banding growth in the USA.


Regent Hall Concerts - Regent Hall Band of the Salvation Army

Sunday 5 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Academy Symphonic Brass

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Regent Hall Concerts - Stately Brass Quintet

Friday 10 October • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. WC1 2DJ W1C2DJ


Contest: National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain

Saturday 11 October • The Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Gore, South Kensington, London SW7 2AP


Hathersage Band - Hathersage Village Autumn Concert

Saturday 11 October • Hathersage Methodist Church, Main Road, Hathersage S32 1BB S32 1BB


Welwyn Garden City Band

October 6 • We are a friendly & sociable Second Section Band with an exciting and varied Christmas season ahead. Due to an employment relocation, we have an immediate vacancy for a FRONT ROW CORNET player.


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Tewit Silver Band

October 4 • Principal Eb Bass. Our established bass section are looking for a strong leader to elevate their performance - could that be you? We have an exciting contest schedule including the Scottish Open and and full set of new Besson basses!


Ian Holmes

BA (hons), PGDip (RCM), ARCM, ALCM
Conductor, piano accompanist and educator


               

 © 2025 4barsrest.com Ltd