Derwent Brass has announced the resignation of second trombone player, John Baum, due to serious family health problems.

New and old

John had been a friend of the band for many years, and became a full time member in 2007, becoming an integral part of the banding set up.

Thankfully, his place has been taken by the returning Howard Else. Howard was a founder member of the band in 1992, and held the principal trombone seat through to 2002.

Return

Alan Nelson has also returned to the cornet section which has seen Emma Davis move from cornet to tenor horn, joining her mum Pam to boost the section.

Meanwhile, talented percussionist Sam Jowett will be moving away to Cardiff this summer.

Friends

Recently the band gave its annual Friends Concert. This free event is a thank you to supporters and involves them picking their favourite items for the programme.

This year the usual number one most popular piece, 'Gabriel’s Oboe', knocked off the top spot by the flugel solo 'Autumn Leaves', beautifully played by Pam Davies.