After 25 years as Musical Director of the Wessex Band Summer School, Derek Broadbent bid an emotional farewell at the end of this year’s course.

Young pupils

Derek was first approached by course co-founder, John Grinell, to join the course and has been Musical Director for 25 courses, spanning a total of 26 years.

A spokesperson told 4BR: "Derek has always looked to develop the playing of all pupils and expand the repertoire of hundreds of players, often writing his own works, including the wonderful march 'Wessex Youth'."

Derek has been an absolute inspiration to every single pupil, member of staff or anyone connected to the Wessex Band Summer SchoolChairman, Matt Stimpson

Inspiration

Course Chairman, Matt Stimpson, addded: "Derek has been an absolute inspiration to every single pupil, member of staff or anyone connected to the Wessex Band Summer School. I have been fortunate enough to come through the ranks of the course, as a past player, and the encouragement and guidance Derek has shown to every single player in this time has been a joy to behold."

Derek made his retirement announcement at the end of this year’s massed band performance.