Michael Bach has informed 4BR that he taken the difficult decision to resign from his position as Professional Conductor at Leyland Band with immediate effect.

It brings to end a successful three year musical partnership, which saw the Swiss conductor lead them to consecutive North West Regional titles in 2012/13, as well as a runner-up finish at the English National, a top six spot at the British Open and an appearance at the European Championship.

Swiss commitments

However with his increasing professional commitments in his home country with reigning European Champion, Brass Band Burgermusik Luzern amongst others, he has taken the decision to allow Leyland to appoint a new MD in considerable time for their British Open appearance in September.

Michael Bach was not due to take the band to the contest at Symphony Hall following the invitation to Luzern to compete at the event.

Exciting period

He told 4BR: “I've spent the last couple of weeks before and after the Area Championship considering my position at Leyland Band.

The band finds itself in an exciting period of change at the moment, with lots of experienced players and many young talented players round the stand.

I believe that having two or even more conductors isn't the ideal way to go forward at this point, and only one week of intense contest preparation is just not enough for either of us anymore.

Leyland needs one permanent conductor who does all the concerts, contest preparations and contests — a role which I cannot fulfil with my commitments in Switzerland and abroad.”

Leyland needs one permanent conductor who does all the concerts, contest preparations and contests — a role which I cannot fulfil with my commitments in Switzerland and abroadMichael Bach

Fantastic band

Michael added: “I have not taken this decision easily. I've spent three wonderful years with this fantastic band, with lots of very good performances, some of them which I'll never forget.

However, more importantly I've met a wonderful set of people who always made me feel very welcome, and who are now friends for a lifetime.”

Announcement

Leyland Band told 4BR that they will make an official announcement as soon as possible in respect to their new conducting arrangements.