The Harrogate Band, have announced the forthcoming departure of their longstanding Musical Director David Lancaster.

Grown in stature

Since taking up the post of MD in 1994, David has led the band from the 3rd Section to the Championship Section, where the band is currently competing for the 6th consecutive year.

During this time both the Band and David have grown in stature and popularity, with a series of strong contest results have gained a reputation for musical excellence and innovation.

2009 will see David and The Harrogate Band pursuing new and different challenges.

Imperial move

David moves on to take up the post of Resident Musical Director with Yorkshire Imperial Urquhart Travel Band and will also continue to develop his burgeoning career in brass band journalism.

I have enjoyed enormously my time with Harrogate Band and am proud of the band’s many achievements during those years. I will always be grateful for the opportunities the band has afforded meDavid Lancaster

Final engagement

David's final engagement with the Harrogate Band will at the finals of the Kippax Band Entertainment Contest on 9th November, after which he will continue to be involved with the band on an informal basis, and of course will remain in contact with his many friends in the band.

For The Harrogate Band, a busy 2009 diary beckons, along with new direction as the band works towards it's participation in the North of England Championships in March.

Praise

Chairman Keith Graham was full of praise for David who has been an integral part of successes that the Band has enjoyed.

He told 4BR: "David's contribution to the band over the past 14 years has simply been enormous. His musical leadership has taken the group in directions and to levels that we might never otherwise have reached, and he has also worked actively throughout as a band member and friend — always involved at the very heart of everything we do. His contribution will be greatly missed, and we wish him well in his new challenges."

Many achievements

David commented to 4BR: "I have enjoyed enormously my time with Harrogate Band and am proud of the band’s many achievements during those years. I will always be grateful for the opportunities the band has afforded me."