4BR has been informed that the management team and players of Pennine Brass have agreed that the band will cease to perform with effect from Tuesday 21st October 2008.

Meeting

4BR understands that the decision will be formalised at an Extraordinary General Meeting at Slaithwaite Conservative Club on Tuesday 21st October.

Meteoric rise

A democracy to the end, the band was founded in 1999. In a short but meteoric rise through the sections they appeared five times at the Yorkshire Area Championship contest between 2002 – 2008, was First Section National title winners in 2007, won the top section Pontins title in 2006, the French Open title in 2001, Senior Trophy in 2003 and appeared four times at the Grand Shield between 2005 and 2008.

It comes as very sad news that they are no longer in the position to carry on as I believe they retained the potential to prosper for many years to come at the highest levelFormer MD, Ian Porthouse

Decision

The decision has been based on the belief that at a time with many bands struggling for dedicated players, all those involved with the band would prefer Pennine Brass to be remembered for its achievements, and as a band that knew when it was time to call it a day.

Real shame

Pete Denton, the band’s Chairman, told 4BR: “It’s a real shame that we have had to make this decision. By calling time now it gives our players and our Musical Director time to find new bands before next year’s Areas and the people who have booked us for engagements time to make alternative arrangements.”

Pete added: “Huw Thomas, our MD, has worked extremely hard with the band since we appointed him in April. I am sure I speak for everyone concerned in wishing him well in his future. He is a very talented musician and I’m sure he will do well with any band that is lucky enough to engage him.”

Thanks

The band has extended its thanks to all former players and the two former Musical Directors, Paul Fligg and Ian Porthouse, without whom they believe the band would not have been originally formed nor progressed to the standard it finally achieved.

Musical direction

The band was formed from a position of zero assets, with difficulties such as instruments, rehearsal venues, players, music and uniforms being regularly surmounted by a mixture of player generosity, a determined and dedicated management team, dynamic musical direction and unrivalled player commitment. The band has been self financing throughout its life.

Sad news

Former MD Ian Porthouse was saddened by the news. Speaking to 4BR he said: "The band has been a central part of my musical life and we enjoyed so many great times together. It comes as very sad news that they are no longer in the position to carry on as I believe they retained the potential to prosper for many years to come at the highest level. It’s very sad, but understandable personally."