A quick glance through the 2012 New Year’s Honours List has revealed at last three recipients of awards for people with a long term connection to the brass band movement.

There will be a great deal of celebration to accompany the news that Clarence Adoo, Derek Holvey and Dr Timothy Thirst will each receive the MBE.

Inspiration

Trumpet player Clarence Adoo has been awarded the MBE for services to music. Clarence was left paralysed following a car accident in 1995, but has gone on to become an inspirational figure to the thousands of people who have met him over the years.

He told the BBC: "I wondered at first whether it was a joke. I wasn't expecting or had any idea of receiving anything like this.

I had to read it three or four times through and I think it's sinking in now."

Unique achievement

The appointment to Dr Tim Thirst is for services to the Stalham Brass Band, the brass band movement, youth music and to the community of Stalham, Norfolk. It marks a rather unique achievement for the family, as Tim’s father, Gerald was also awarded the MBE in 2000.

Speaking to 4BR, Tim hoped that the award would encourage a new generation of young players to enjoy brass banding.

"The award came as huge surprise. I have been involved with the Stalham Band for over 50 years now, and hope the award persuades a new generation of youngsters to enjoy brass band music making."

Although Tim doesn’t yet know when the MBE will be presented, it will be day to remember.

"I must thank those people who nominated me, and I believe the award is very much for those who have helped me over the years. Brass banding is a family tradition and with my wife, son and daughter playing in Stalham with me, it makes this honour even more special."

Brass banding is a family tradition and with my wife, son and daughter playing in Stalham with me, it makes this honour even more specialTim Thirst, MBE

Respected

Meanwhile, 4BR managed to contact Derek Holvey whilst washing up the dishes at home – a household chore he will carry on doing despite the new honour to his name.

"I don’t think I could get away with not doing it despite the award of the MBE," he said modestly. "I even went to buy an early copy of the Western Mail today to make sure it wasn’t a mistake!"

Derek’s lifelong commitment to music in South Wales and services as conductor to the Four Counties Youth Orchestra has led to his award.

A longstanding and highly respected member and bandmaster of both Parc & Dare, from 1953 to 1997, and Treherbert & District Bands, Derek has also been tutor and inspiration to innumerable brass students across Mid Glamorgan and beyond.

"It’s been a double delight," he added. "I found out that the nomination came from the young players in the orchestra, so that makes it very special to me."