The Kirkintilloch Band has announced a number of personnel changes as they bid to build on the successes achieved during 2013.

Experienced

The experienced Raymond Tennant joins as Resident Conductor with immediate effect — a welcome return to the band where he first started his long and highly successful musical career.

He has latterly worked as MD with the Johnstone Band and Kilmarnock Concert Brass.

Delighted

Band Secretary Scott Morrice told 4BR: "We are delighted that Raymond accepted our invitation as we look forward to building on the successes of last year.

We would also like to place on record our thanks to Eoin Tonner, our previous Resident Conductor. His hard work and drive has helped us to move forward and deliver a number of high quality performances over the past year."

New principal

In addition, the band has also announced the signing of principal cornet Gregory Chaplain, who was previously the top man of the highly successful Carnoustie & District Youth Band.

Scott added: "This is a superb signing. Gregory briefly took up the role of principal cornet with us for the Scottish Open, where he delivered such an assured performance, so to gain his services full time is a huge boost.

Gregory will replace Stephanie Mitchell, who has taken a step away from banding to focus on her studies and career as a trumpet player. We would like to thank Stephanie for her outstanding contribution, and wish her well in her future studies."

We are delighted that Raymond accepted our invitation as we look forward to building on the successes of last yearBand Secretary, Scott Morrice

New soprano

Meanwhile, Daniel de Gruchy-Lambert moves onto soprano from the solo cornet bench.

Daniel is currently studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland after graduating with a First Class Honours Degree.

Scott further added: "The band is delighted to see Daniel move onto soprano. He is a multi-faceted performer, and we can’t wait to see him make this seat his own.

We would also like to thank Calum Tonner for a number of fine performances with the band, and wish him well as he takes time away from banding to focus on his studies at University."