4BR has been informed that Allan Withington has resigned from his position as Professional Conductor of Grimethorpe Colliery Band, to take up the same role at rivals Foden’s with immediate effect.

Difficult decision

In a statement from his home in Bergen, Allan confirmed that he had taken the ‘difficult decision’ to leave Grimethorpe, after a period at the helm that had yielded six major titles since 2006.

In a statement he said: "As of today’s date I resign as Professional Conductor of the Grimethorpe Colliery Band. It has been a difficult decision to make but now feel that I have made the right choice."

Respect

He added: "I would like to use this official statement to thank the players for their tremendous support during my time at Grimethorpe. I have so much respect for their commitment, dedication and musicality, which is so evident week in, week out.

I sincerely hope that the recent organizational reshuffle will soon bear dividends for the band thus creating a better working environment for all concerned. The lads so deserve it."

Six major titles

During his tenure Allan led Grimethorpe to the Yorkshire Area title in 2006, two National Championship victories in 2006 & 2007, and brace of English National wins in 2007 & 2008. His last major success came at Brass in Concert in 2010.

Speculation

Although speculation had been rife that a move may have been imminent after leading Foden’s to an impressive defence of their North West Area title in Blackpool, it appears that the decision caused him a great deal of considered thought.

I can only promise Foden’s total commitment from myself. As always I will endeavor to work hard to put ourselves in a position by which we can continue recent contest successesAllan Withington

Looking forward

On his new appointment however, he appears to be looking forward to working with the Sandbach band.

He confirmed: "I consider it a privilege to have been offered the same position with Fodens Band, an offer which I am proud to have accepted.

It is an exciting challenge to lead the band into its second century of existence, and I look forward to working closely with Associate Conductor Mike Fowles and the band."

Work hard

The MD is also looking forward to providing Foden's with all his total commitment too: "I can only promise Foden’s total commitment from myself. As always I will endeavor to work hard to put ourselves in a position by which we can continue recent contest successes.

I hope to provide new musical impulses, point them in other directions and help them conquer new musical ground.

In short — the start of a long and successful relationship."

Fantastic musician

Speaking about the appointment Band Chairman John Barber told 4BR: "Everyone at Fodens is extremely pleased. Allan is a fantastic musician with a proven track record with every band he has conducted.

We enjoyed working with him at the National Finals last year and during our historic double hat-trick at the rent North West Area contest."

New avenues

John also noted that the appointment will open new avenues for the band to explore: "We are now looking forward to working with Allan at the forthcoming English Nationals, British Open and National Finals, and will shortly announce the guest conductor of the band for Brass in Concert.

We are also very excited about the new musical avenues we can explore with Allan in what we are sure will be a long and successful partnership."