The death has been announced of Haydn Griffiths MBE, the long standing and hugely respected conductor of Armthorpe Elmfield Band.

He passed away, aged 91, on the 24th October surrounded by his family, friends, and with his beloved band playing for him one last time.

Remarkable musician

A remarkable musician, he served the local community and brass band movement for almost nine decades with a level of dedicated service, good humour and respect. He was regarded as a true gentleman of the brass banding world.

2018 saw the publication of his biography by author Alan Barber — one that told a remarkable musical life story that started at the age of 7. He became a much sought after player and later conductor; first as Assistant Bandmaster of Markham Main Colliery Band, then Hatfield Colliery and again at Markham Main Colliery as Musical Director.

However, it was his association with the formation of Armthorpe Elmfield Band in 1964 that made his name — one that lasted for the rest of his life.

Inspired hundreds

A teacher who inspired hundreds of players, his dedication to Armthorpe and the band movement was unparalleled. His successes on the contest and concert stage were numerous — including Area Championship wins and local and regional event victories.

He also played for royalty, including Her Majesty the Queen, and in 2002 was awarded the MBE in the Queen's New Year Honours list for 'Services to the Armthorpe Elmfield Band and the community in Doncaster, South Yorkshire'.

He also became the first Honorary Freeman of the Parish of Armthorpe in recognition of the voluntary service he gave to the Armthorpe Band organisation for over 46 years, and he proudly conducted the Black Dyke Band during concerts at both Selby Abbey and Scunthorpe Baths.

Amazing accomplishments

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "Haydn's life has been full of amazing accomplishments inspiring young people to perform and realise their potential.

As one of, if not the longest standing single band conductors, he has sadly left us, but we know that Armthorpe Elmfield Band will be continuing his wishes and building upon his great legacy of inspiring many more generations of young, budding musicians."

Haydn's life has been full of amazing accomplishments inspiring young people to perform and realise their potentialArmthorpe Elmfield Band

Funeral service

The funeral service will take place on Friday 16th November at 11.00am at the Church of St Leonards and St Marys, Church Street, Armthorpe, Doncaster, DN3 3AD.

It will be followed by committal at Rose Hill Crematorium. Following the service, the family would like to invite everyone to join them at the Armthorpe Community Centre for refreshments and to share memories.

A book of remembrance will be available at Armthorpe Community Centre from Friday 2nd November.