4BR has been informed of the departure of Virtuosi GUS principal cornet James Fountain to Grimethorpe Colliery Band.

Brightest talents

In a statement to 4BR, Virtuosi GUS confirmed that the 17 year old, regarded as one of the banding movement brightest talents, and will join the Brass in Concert Champions as soon as he has completed his playing commitments with the band.

Sadness

Band Chairman Shawn Pagington told 4BR: "It’s with great sadness that we are losing one of the top cornet players in the country. James has served the band over the last 3 years with a maturity rarely seen in players of his age."

He added: "Since being appointed principal cornet of the Virtuosi GUS Band at the age of just 14, James has become one of the most talked about cornet players in the brass band world, and we knew he was destined to reach the top at a very young age."

Masters

4BR understands that the player’s final performances with the band will be at the All England International Masters on the 29th May followed by the evening Gala Concert.

Shawn concluded: "On behalf of the band I would like to wish James the very best in his new position at Grimethorpe."

It’s with great sadness that we are losing one of the top cornet players in the country. James has served the band over the last 3 years with a maturity rarely seen in players of his ageVirtuosi GUS Band

Exciting signing

Meanwhile, Grimethorpe Band Manager Nigel Dixon told 4BR: "We would like to confirm the signing of James Fountain as our new principal cornet player.

James will form an integral part of what is an exciting musical future for the band. We are delighted to welcome him to Grimethorpe."

The signing however means the departure of Robert Westacott who has been with Grimethorpe since February 2009.

Outstanding player

Nigel added: "We are sorry to lose Rob’s services. He has been an outstanding player and a fine bandsman, and someone who has contributed greatly to the success of the band over the past few years. We wish him every success in the future."

4BR understands that James will make his debut with the band at Ipswich on June 11th.

Full of ambition

Nigel concluded: "This is beginning of a new chapter in the history of Grimethorpe Colliery Band – one that that we believe is full of ambition and commitment to the musical excellence that has made our name for nearly one hundred years."