Sandhurst Silver Band has announced the appointment of Russ Young to the joint role of Resident Conductor & Musical Director.

He will immediately start work alongside professional conductor David Johnson ahead of the band's appearance at the First Section National Finals in Cheltenham.

Russ joined the Royal Marines Band Service in 1993 and has enjoyed a varied and prestigious career, having been Bandmaster of The Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines Scotland and The Band of Her Majesty's Royal Marines Collingwood.

He was also Chief Instructor at The Royal Marines School of Music, and in 2017 returned to the Headquarters Band Service Royal Marines.

Delighted

He told 4BR: "I'm delighted to accept this appointment in what has already been a successful year for the band.

I look forward to continuing the hard work preparing for this year's National Finals in addition to having a great deal of enjoyment delivering concert programmes."

New signings

New signings also take up their roles, with Steven Williams coming in on solo euphonium, having previously enjoyed spells with Blackburn & Darwen and Pennine Brass.

Kieren Williams, who recently relocated to the area, comes in on solo baritone after playing with Thoresby Colliery and Ratby Co-operative Bands as well as conducting the University of Nottingham Band.

Two other University of Nottingham alumni in Sam Holmes on Eb Bass and Andrew Claydon on first horn also join, as does percussionist Rachael Allbrighton and the returning Kevin Barker on cornet.

It's really exciting to be able to welcome someone with Russ's experience and ability. He is a perfect fit with the band, proving to be a hit with players and audiences alikeBand Chairperson, Gwen Moore

Hit

Band Chairperson, Gwen Moore told 4BR: "It's really exciting to be able to welcome someone with Russ's experience and ability. He is a perfect fit with the band, proving to be a hit with players and audiences alike.

This, along with some fantastic new playing additions and the partnership between Russ and our Professional Conductor David Johnson makes for an exciting time for Sandhurst, and we can't wait to represent Berkshire at the National Finals."