Woods departs GUS

Virtuosi GUS and euphonium star Robert Woods have parted company.

Tuesday, 18 November 2008

The Virtuosi GUS Band have announced the departure of Robert Woods, the bands principal euphonium player.

Prize winner

Robert was appointed principal euphonium of the then named Rigid Containers Group Band in 1992. During his time with the band he has enjoyed prize winning performances at all the major contests and the highlight was being awarded the title in 1993 of "Brass in Concert Solo Champion" at the prestigious Entertainment Contest held in Spennymoor.

Commitments

Due to a change in both personal and work circumstances it has become increasingly difficult for Robert to maintain the level of commitment required at this level of championship banding.

After several weeks of discussions with the band management it was clear that the work and personal circumstances were a long term problem and were unlikely to change.

It has been a difficult decision but due to the 180 mile round trip each rehearsal and current work commitments I feel this is the right time to make a change. I wish the band all the success in the futureRobert Woods

Relinquish

For these reasons both Robert and the band felt it was the right time for him to relinquish the principal euphonium position. Robert's last engagements with the band will be this weekends concert and master class in Cambourne and St Stythians during the bands short trip to the West Country.

Right time

Robert stated: "I first played for this band over 15 years ago and have played at all the major contests as well as numerous Radio and CD recordings.

"It has been a difficult decision but due to the 180 mile round trip each rehearsal and current work commitments I feel this is the right time to make a change. I wish the band all the success in the future."

No replacement yet

Band Manager Shawn Pagington told 4BR: "No announcement will be made concerning Roberts replacement at Virtuosi GUS until later in the year. We have been in contact with a couple of highly talented players concerning the principal euphonium seat and will also be advertising the vacant position in the near future."

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