Tredegar Band has announced a brace of personnel changes as they look forward to building on the artistic and contesting successes of the past year.

Farewells

At their recent annual awards evening, fond farewells were given to flugel player Danny Winder and horn stalwart Lee Drew. Changing work and family commitments has meant that the duo will be taking on new conducting and playing opportunities.

MD Ian Porthouse told 4BR: "We are sad to lose the outstanding talents of Danny and Lee and wish them the very best. They have been superb performers, dedicated bandsmen and great friends — each making a huge commitment to the band since I have been conducting.

They will all be missed — although rehearsals may be a bit quieter from now on!"

Delighted

The MD also told 4BR that he was delighted to have already signed David and Alyn James on flugel and horn from Tongwynlais.

"We have been very fortunate to sign two superb players in David and Alyn, who I know will fit in perfectly with the band and enhance our solo and ensemble strength in depth. I'm really looking forward to working with them both."

We have been very fortunate to sign two superb players in David and Alyn, who I know will fit in perfectly with the band and enhance our solo and ensemble strength in depthMD, Ian Porthouse

Looking forward

Alyn James told 4BR: "Both David and I are looking forward to coming to Tredegar and to a band that has such a progressive musical outlook. We leave with great memories and friendships from our time with Tongwynlais and wish them all the best for the future."

Awards

At the celebratory evening, principal cornet Dewi Griffiths was awarded 'Player of the Year' with additional awards given to Steve Barnett, David Thomas, Andy Russell, Brendan Caddy, Lewis Rees and the euphonium and baritones as 'Section of the Year'.