4BR has been informed of the death of the respected conductor Graham O’Connor. He passed away after a long illness on Thursday 5th December aged 65.

Lung transplant

A former cornet player brought up through the Grimethorpe Colliery Band, in 2010 he was diagnosed with Cryptogenic Fibrosis Alveolitis; a chronic, progressive lung disease, that finally necessitated a complete double lung transplant.

After a long period of recovery he returned to banding in 2012 and made his last contest appearance directing the Hatfield Band, with whom he enjoyed a highly successful long term conducting tenure, at the Yorkshire Area Championships in 2013.

Grand Shield triple

He was a member of the Grimethorpe Colliery Band that won the British Open Championship, whilst as a conductor he holds the joint record of directing three separate bands to the Grand Shield title — Andrews Heat for Hire in 1980, Dodworth in 1992 and Cory in 1994. Cory has never been relegated from the British Open since.

He also won the Senior Trophy and Second Section National title with Hatfield, as well claiming a unique Butlins Mineworkers ‘Double’ in 2005 as Hatfield won the First Section and Ransome won the Championship title.

Victories

His CV also included victories at the National Championships of Great Britain, Pontins, Butlins, Yorkshire Area, Durham League and CISWO amongst others.

Graham O’Connor gained a highly respected reputation as a band trainer and conductor throughout the UK — gaining success at Regional and National competitions with bands as geographically diverse as Fishburn and EYMS in the North East to BTM and Cwmaman in Wales, Rhodian and Ransome in the Midlands, Mount Charles in Cornwall, 1st Old Boys in Northern Ireland, and Bo’ness & Carriden in Scotland and a host of Yorkshire bands.

All benefitted from his desire and commitment to give 100% to their efforts, his willingness to enjoy his music and to make friends.

He contributed greatly to the banding movement and bands all over the UK benefited from his advice and musicalityStan Lippeatt

Sad news

His great friend Stan Lippeatt told 4BR: "It’s very sad news, especially after the long battle he had after his operation.

He contributed greatly to the banding movement and bands all over the UK benefited from his advice and musicality."

Funeral details will be announced on 4BR in the near future.

A 4BR interview and article with Graham O’Connor:

http://www.4barsrest.com/articles/2011/1285.asp#.UqCe4MSPF8E