New MD at Shirley

The Shirley Band opts for a youthful lead of direction with the appointment of RBC graduate Tom Stoneman to lead the Midlanders.

The 22 year old will take on the roll with immediate effect

Friday, 04 October 2019

The Shirley Band from Solihull near Birmingham has appointed Royal Birmingham Conservatoire's (RBC) first postgraduate brass band conducting student, Tom Stoneman as its new Musical Director.

Tom, who was awarded a first-class BMus (Hons) degree from RBC last year, is to start his role with immediate effect.

Experience

The 22 year old has already gained widespread playing experience during his studies with the likes of Virtuosi GUS, Tredegar, Birmingham Conservatoire's Symphony Orchestra, and the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain.

He is currently studying for his master's degree under the direction of RBC Director of Brass Band Studies, Ian Porthouse, and currently works as a music teacher for Birmingham's Services for Education.

As part of his final year project at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, he organised and conducted a joint concert between the Conservatoire Brass Band and Birmingham Schools Brass Band.

Delighted

He told 4BR: "I'm delighted to be joining Shirley as MD. I believe this is the start of a very promising partnership, and one that will grow with our series of upcoming concerts and contests."

In response, Band Secretary Brian Johnson, added: "We're also delighted to welcome Tom on board in this our centenary year. He's a talented musician who struck up a great rapport from his very first rehearsal. The coming months promise to be a really exciting time."

We're also delighted to welcome Tom on board in this our centenary year. He's a talented musician who struck up a great rapport from his very first rehearsal. The coming months promise to be a really exciting timeShirley Band

Energy and drive

Meanwhile, Ian Porthouse, added: "I'm pleased that Tom has secured a position with such an established band so early in his conducting career. He will bring energy and drive to the ensemble and hopefully it will be the start of a long and successful partnership.

As our first post-graduate student in brass band conducting at Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, I'm looking forward to seeing his career develop."

Become a supporter and help make our future secure.

4barsrest continues to be a proudly independent voice. There are no paywalls to overcome to be able to enjoy what we do to keep our journalism at the heart of the brass banding world. Support us with a one-off donation or subscribe from just £2.50 per month.

Support us