Top section Cornish band Mount Charles has announced that Steve Thomas has accepted the position of Resident Conductor.

Delighted

Chairman Derek Thomas told 4BR: "We are delighted to appoint a highly respected musician who has enjoyed over 20 years of experience and success with the likes of Bodmin and Camborne and who also holds the record of 11 years of unbroken service to the Cornwall Youth Brass Band."

Steve has completed the innovative conducting course at Durham University, studying under Ray Farr, Philip Wilby and Elgar Howarth whilst remaining an important part of the Mount Charles playing personnel over the last four years on euphonium and Bb bass.

Drive and enthusiasm

The band until recently have been working with John Maines, who due to his ongoing commitments has meant that he has been unable to carry on in the role.

Derek added: "John has done a great job and we are all very grateful for his efforts and support. Steve’s drive, energy and enthusiasm will support our approach in investing our time with quality young players to help the band realise its potential."

Steve’s drive, energy and enthusiasm will support our approach in investing our time with quality young players to help the band realise its potentialBand Chairman, Derek Thomas

Team up with Dobson

The band has worked with numerous conductors locally and professionally over the last 12 months and will continue to work with guest conductors in the immediate future.

Derek went on to say: "We plan to work this way over the next year, and are delighted to be working with Simon Dobson for the 2013 Area contest and Grand Shield. Steve will be the consistent factor in the band’s development, which we strongly believe to be the right approach."

As well as his work with Mount Charles, Steve will continue to conduct Pendennis Brass.