The Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) has announced the appointment of Dr David Thornton as Senior Tutor in Brass Bands.

This new position will see the internationally-renowned euphonium player, teacher and conductor, steering the RNCM's brass band activities throughout the year with immediate effect, to further enhance the College's reputation as a world-leading conservatoire for brass education.

Privilege

David told 4BR: "The RNCM has always been a world leader in the field of brass band education and it's a real privilege to be able to take this opportunity.

There is already an unparalleled team of brass band tutors at the College, including Professor Nicholas Childs, Owen Farr, Richard Marshall, Professor Steven Mead and Professor Roger Webster."

He continued: "Added to this, we have Professor James Gourlay and Professor David King as our International Chairs, and great connections with some of the UK's leading brass bands, including Black Dyke and Foden's, which are in residence with us.

I'm looking forward to working with students, tutors and partners to lead the RNCM brass bands into creative projects that everyone can be excited about."

The RNCM continues to enjoy a unique position in the world of brass and I am thrilled that David will now be working as our Senior Tutor in Brass BandsProfessor Linda Merrick, RNCM Principal

Unique position

David, who studied at the RNCM and is a Sterling Musical Instruments Performing Artist and consultant, will conduct his first RNCM Brass Band concert in October.

Professor Linda Merrick, RNCM Principal, added: "The RNCM continues to enjoy a unique position in the world of brass and I am thrilled that David will now be working as our Senior Tutor in Brass Bands.

As an eminent RNCM alumnus and one of our current euphonium tutors, David already enjoys a close connection to the College. Through his new role, he will be able to build on this to ensure that our brass band students continue to have an exceptional experience here at the RNCM."