*
banner

Ruck departure at Welsh champion

Resident Conductor Joshua Ruck has left his role as Resident Conductor at Welsh champion Tongwynlais Temperance.

Tongwynlais
 

Welsh Champion Tongwynlais has announced the resignation of Resident Conductor Joshua Ruck.

New horizons

The talented young conductor leaves with a desire to explore new conducting horizons, after his increasing commitments to new ensembles has made it increasingly difficult to continue to make Tongwynlais a priority.

Disappointed

"I am of course disappointed to have to leave,2 Joshua told 4BR. "I’ve many fond memories of our achievements over the last few years both as a player and as Resident Conductor.

I believe I have come to develop my best friendships with people within the band and I wish them well for the future."

Thanks

He added: "I would like to place on record my gratitude to the band and Philip Harper for the opportunity to have become the Resident Conductor and leave with many happy memories."

Band spokesperson Gareth Hann told 4BR: "Since Josh took up the position early in 2012 the band has had a stable conducting team and we thank Josh for his dedication during that time.

We wish Josh well for the future and know that he has a promising career ahead of him."

Since Josh took up the position early in 2012 the band has had a stable conducting team and we thank Josh for his dedication during that timeBand spokesperson, Gareth Hann

New appointment

A decision on a replacement will be made in the New Year to work alongside Professional MD, Steve Sykes.

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us    


EverReady Band

New duo at EverReady

January 10 • New talent is welcomed at EverReady Band as they say a fond farewell to a stalwart performer.


Mallinson

Hammonds sign NYBBGB flugel Mallinson

January 10 • The Hammonds Band has signed Noah Mallinson as their new flugel horn player.


John Wallace CBE

John Wallace becomes new Honorary Vice President at coop

January 10 • The Brass in Concert champion has spoken of its pride that John Wallace CBE has become its new Honorary Vice President.


Megan Bousfield

4BR Friday interview with Megan Bousfield

January 9 • 4BR Editor Iwan Fox talks to NYBBGB Conductor Competition finalist Megan Bousfield.


Newstead Brass - Brett Baker

Saturday 17 January • St Wilfrid's Church, . Kirkby-in-Ashfield NG17 8LA


The Hepworth Band - New Year Concert

Sunday 25 January • Christ Church, New Mill, Holmfirth HD9 7ER


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Friday 6 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: Norwegian National Brass Band Championships

Saturday 7 February • Grieghallen, Bergen, N-5015 N-5015


Contest: London & Southern Counties Regional Championships

Saturday 21 March • Arts & Leisure Centre, Lytton Way, Stevenage SG1 1LZ


Putney and Wimbledon Brass Band

January 8 • Following our promotion to the 2nd section we are looking for a percussionist to do a bit of bing bonging on the timps for the regionals in March. We are a lovely band - everyone says so - so please get in touch. Rehearsals Weds from 1930 in Putney.


Mid Rhondda Band

January 6 • Mid Rhondda Band are currently looking for a trombone player and percussionists to join the team. We are a friendly, welcoming 3rd section band working towards competing in the Welsh Area in March. We also have a variety of events booked for 2026.


The Marple Band

January 6 • Bb Bass and Tuned Percussionist vacancies to join our fabulous band. We are a friendly, ambitious 2nd Section band, starting an exciting new year.


Ronnie MacNiven

MMus GRSM LRAM
Trombonist, composer, conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd