The Cory Band has announced a trio of new signings ahead of their trip to perform at the Gala Concert of the Norwegian National Championships in Bergen on the weekend.

Euph

Former Tongwynlais Temperance principal euphonium, Martyn Patterson will take up the second euphonium seat vacated by James Mcleod.

Cory MD, Philip Harper told 4BR: "I'm delighted to be able to team up again with Martyn, and our euphonium and baritone section will benefit greatly from his vast experience at the top level with bands such as Tredegar, Sellers, Ever Ready, Woodfalls and of course, Tongwynlais."

Martyn added: "I’m relishing the opportunity of performing in some of the most high profile concerts and tours I have only dreamt of, and that is only the first few months!

I also look forward to being reacquainted with Philip and many other talented players from my previous bands, as well as making new friends."

I’m relishing the opportunity of performing in some of the most high profile concerts and tours I have only dreamt of, and that is only the first few monthsMartyn Patterson

Percussion

Meanwhile, joining the percussion section is Max Ireland, a student at the RWCMD in Cardiff, principal percussionist of the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain, and former principal percussionist of the Flowers Band.

"We have been trialling Max with the band, and he has impressed us all, not only with his phenomenal technique, but also with his highly professional attitude to rehearsals and concerts," Philip Harper added. "As a young man at the start of his career I believe he will go a long way."

Second horn

Finally, Lucy Griffiths has rejoined the band on second horn. After a sabbatical period teaching in Dubai, Lucy recently returned to the Valleys and as Philip added: "I jumped at the chance of bringing Lucy back to the band. She is a powerhouse and will therefore compliment our horn section perfectly!"

Norway

The band is currently preparing for its trip to Bergen to play at the Gala Concert of the Norwegian National Championships in the Greig Hall on Saturday evening, followed by a church concert on Sunday morning.