One of the most successful musical partnerships in the banding world is to come to an end following the shock news that Dr Robert Childs has resigned from Cory Band.

Emotional

The announcement was broken to the players by the MD at an emotional rehearsal on Monday evening.

During his 12 years in charge he has led Cory to unprecedented success – including a remarkable haul of 23 major titles in just 55 contests.

Latest addition

The latest addition to five British Opens, three Europeans, a World Championship and National Championship of Great Britain, a Brass in Concert title and many other successes, came at the Welsh Area Contest in Swansea on the weekend – his ninth win since 2002.

Remarkably, those 55 contests yielded 48 podium finishes, whilst Cory never finished outside the top six at any contest during his period at the helm.

Final appearance

He will make his final contesting appearance with the band at the European Championships in Rotterdam in May, with his final concert appearance at the Royal Welsh College, where he is Director of Brass Band Studies, later the same month.

Bob told 4BR: "After a great deal of thought and soul searching I have decided to relinquish my position as Musical Director of the ‘Mighty’ Cory Band. I’m almost 55 years of age and I have other things I want to do before I’m too old."

Change

He added: "I just fancy a change. 12 years is a long time to run a top band like Cory. I have nothing concrete in place to replace Cory, but I intend dedicating a bit more time to my duties at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. I’m sure the phone will start ringing when my banding friends realise that I am now a freelance conductor."

I just fancy a change. 12 years is a long time to run a top band like Cory. I have nothing concrete in place to replace CoryDr Robert Childs

Sad day

Cory Band Chairman Austin Davies Chairman said: "This is a very sad day for us. We have enjoyed working with Bob, but understand and respect his decision to resign."

He added: "Cory Band is in an enviable position, ranked number one in the world and current British Open and Welsh Champion. We have a full diary for 2012 and a tour of Australia in 2013. We will take our time to find a suitable replacement."

Advisor

He also added that Bob has agreed to act as an advisor to the band to help them find a suitable replacement.

Dedication

Bob concluded: "I wish the band well in the future and want to take this opportunity to thank all the current and past players who played under me for their dedication and friendship.

I also want to sincerely thank the band’s President, Mr Bernard Jones OBE for his loyal support during my time with Cory."

As stated, Dr Childs will make his final contest appearance with Cory at the European Championships in May with and his final concert at the Royal Welsh College of Music in Cardiff on Friday 18th May.