The Leyland Band has made an important signing ahead of their British Open challenge at Symphony Hall in Birmingham.

Joel Kirk, a recent graduate from the University of Huddersfield takes on the flugel horn role, taking over from John Doyle.

Student study

Joel studied under the legendary Phillip McCann and has played with Dinnington Colliery and Hade Edge Bands as well as representing England as part of the 2016 European Youth Brass Band.

An emerging composer with a great interest in contemporary music, his work has been performed by a number of internationally acclaimed ensembles. He is now to study for his Masters in Composition at Huddersfield University.

We are delighted to welcome Joel. He covered concerts and a recording earlier in the year and his ability and potential was clearLeyland Band

Great team

He told 4BR: "I'm delighted to be joining such a great team of players at Leyland. Having John Doyle as my predecessor certainly means I have a big pair of shoes to fill, but I'm definitely looking forward to the challenge."

Potential

In response, a band spokesperson added: "We are delighted to welcome Joel. He covered concerts and a recording earlier in the year and his ability and potential was clear.

We would also like to place on record our thanks to John Doyle who provided years of outstanding performances before stepping aside to concentrate on his conducting career."