*
banner

Leyland announce Doyle principal

John Doyle moves from Black Dyke to take over end chair and baton at Leyland.

Doyle
 

Leyland has announced the appointment of John Doyle in the dual role of principal cornet and associate conductor.

January

After a decade of playing in two spells with Black Dyke, the Preston born player will join Leyland in early January.

John told 4BR that he is looking forward to further success with Leyland. In the role of associate conductor, he will work closely with Leyland's new professional MD helping drive performances through his wealth of experience, energy and personality.

Local band

John told 4BR: "I'm delighted and excited about the chance to come to Leyland as being a born and bred Prestonian, they have been my local band. This collaboration not only gives me the opportunity to develop my conducting skills, but I also get the chance to continue playing at the very top level."

This collaboration not only gives me the opportunity to develop my conducting skills, but I also get the chance to continue playing at the very top levelJohn Doyle

Confirmed piece

A Leyland spokesperson told 4BR: "Following the announcement of the departure of Jason Katsikaris, work has been going on to establish the band's future structure. John’s appointment is the first confirmed piece in what we believe will be an exciting and forward thinking combination to take Leyland to the next level."

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    


Megan Bousfield

4BR Friday interview with Megan Bousfield

January 9 • 4BR Editor Iwan Fox talks to NYBBGB Conductor Competition finalist Megan Bousfield.


Yorkshire

Yorkshire Championship schedule confirmed

January 9 • There will be two days of exciting Yorkshire banding battles in Huddersfield to enjoy.


Dai Thomas

Tredegar look to new business lead for 150th anniversary

January 9 • Welsh champions will take a new approach to their business outlook as their celebrate their 150th anniversary this year.


Next Step Films

Compilation album on offer from NXTOD

January 9 • There are plenty of highlights to enjoy from 2025 — and its all free from the NXTOD media platform.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


The Marple Band

January 6 • Bb Bass and Tuned Percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly, ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new year.


Morgan Griffiths

Dip. Performance
Conductor, Peripatetic Music Teacher, Lower brass specialist


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd