‘Three truly memorable years’ is how Mareika Gray has described her tenure at Milnrow, following the news that the successful partnership between the Australian conductor and the North West band has come to end.

Historic

With a historic victory at the Grand Shield to add to a first qualification in their history for the National Finals and a superb podium finish at the English National Championship in 2013, it was little wonder Mareika’s description of her time with the band was summed up in such a way.

In addition, Milnrow has shown further progress under her command in 2014, with a fine performance at the North West Area before the final outing at Symphony Hall saw Mareika inspire her players to a fine 12th place finish – one that secured their British Open participation for a third year.

Memorable years

"They have been three memorable years," she told 4BR. "I am sad it has come to an end, and I wish the band all the very best for the future.

Other commitments and exciting opportunities have arisen which I am now looking forward to, but Milnrow will always hold a very special place in my musical heart."

I couldn’t have asked for a better performance or a better way for things to end with a result that maintains the progress I believe the band made with me over the last three yearsMareika Gray

Summed up

Mareika added that the final performance on ‘Vita Aeterna Variations’ at Symphony Hall summed up her time with the band.

"They gave everything for me — as they have done every since I walked into the bandroom.

I couldn’t have asked for a better performance or a better way for things to end with a result that maintains the progress I believe the band made with me over the last three years."