North of England Area champion Reg Vardy (above) has announced the appointment of Brenden Wheeler as its new Resident Conductor.

The Australian moved to the UK in 2004 and soon became a highly sought after euphonium player following his success in winning the 2005 BBC Brass Soloist competition — going on to perform with a number of elite level bands.

Successful career

However, since 2009 he has also developed a highly successful career in the British Army — resulting in his commission to the role of Assistant Director of Music of The Band and Bugles of The Rifles based in Winchester.

He has recently gained further promotion and a posting to the Army Foundation College in Harrogate, North Yorkshire.

Delighted

Brenden commented to 4BR: "I'm delighted to be appointed at Reg Vardy. Brass bands have always been a passion of mine and it's a pleasure to be regularly involved in the scene once again.

I'm relishing the opportunities that lie ahead with Reg Vardy and looking forward to developing a successful and long-lasting relationship with such a progressive and ambitious band."

Brenden will work closely alongside our professional Music Director Russell Gray, giving Reg Vardy one of the most talented conducting teams in the UKReg Vardy Band Manager, Graeme Tindall

Highly skilled

Meanwhile, Band Manager Graeme Tindall added: "Brenden is a remarkable talent and has already made a real impression on the players. We always knew it would take time to find the right candidate, and in Brenden we have appointed a highly skilled conductor capable of leading the band forward.

Brenden will work closely alongside our professional Music Director Russell Gray, giving Reg Vardy one of the most talented conducting teams in the UK. We have extended a warm North East welcome for what we hope will become a long and successful future together."