Thoresby Colliery has announced changes to the conducting setup at the Nottinghamshire band, with Professional MD Brian Grant taking an enhanced role as part of his work with the Midlands Championship Section contenders.

Successful

Following a successful partnership over the past three years directing Thoresby’s performances at major championships, Brian will now have direct oversight of all musical matters in a move that sees the Resident Conductor position remaining unfilled.

Instead, the band will be making announcements in the near future regarding the appointment of named conducting ‘Associates’ to undertake other project work.

Fantastic

A delighted Band Manager Kieren Williams told 4BR: "The band has enjoyed a fantastic relationship with Brian. The players respond positively to his musical style and have huge respect for his vast experience.

The work-rate at rehearsals and enjoyment is unrivalled so when the opportunity arose to work more closely, we had to seize it. The new set up will mean we spend more time with Brian, as well as working with other conductors as appropriate."

The band has enjoyed a fantastic relationship with Brian. The players respond positively to his musical style and have huge respect for his vast experienceBand Manager Kieren Williams

Dr Martin

Brian will be at the helm with Thoresby at this weekend’s Doctor Martin’s contest before looking towards spending more time being directly involved with the band over the Christmas period and into the 2015 contesting season.

He told 4BR: "I’ve enjoyed the past few years at Thoresby and am continually impressed by the drive and ambition on show around the stands. It’s an exciting time to be involved with the band and I’m looking forward to playing a bigger part of it."

Bolsover

Following the Doctor Martin Contest, the band will work with guest conductor Martin Heartfield for upcoming September and October engagements, including their appearance at the Bolsover Festival of Brass.