Grimethorpe Colliery Band has announced the appointment of Dr Jack Stamp as their International Composer in Association. He will work alongside Dr Nigel Clarke, who will remain as Associate Composer to the band.
Dr Stamp is regarded as one of the most respected writers and educators working in the field of brass and wind bands in the United States of America.
Honoured
He told 4BR: "My introduction to British brass bands was over 30 years ago when I became the conductor of the Triangle Band in North Carolina. What I discovered was a world of outstanding music with contributions from many of the greatest 20th century British composers."
He added: "I'm incredibly honoured to take on the position with such a renowned and respected musical ensemble. I view this post as an artistic and ambassadorial role and I look forward to the opportunity to promote this incredible band."
Constant passion
In response, Musical Director Dr David Thornton added: "Grimethorpe has always maintained a constant passion to think outside the box and promote brass music making to the wider world.
This began with Elgar Howarth in the 1970's and continues today, led by Nigel Clark and now with Dr Jack Stamp. We're determined to expand our musical outlook and we have already enjoyed productive meetings with Jack whose infectious personality, creative mind and generous spirit made him a huge hit with the players.
We're delighted to welcome him and look forward to collaborating on several performance projects in the near future."
We're delighted to welcome him and look forward to collaborating on several performance projects in the near futureDr David Thornton
Dynamic collaboration
That was a response echoed by Dr Nigel Clarke who said: "I've known Jack for a number of years and have huge respect for his artistry as a composer, conductor and lecturer.
His wider musical experience is well known and his appointment will create a progressive and dynamic collaboration which we believe will contribute to the band's ambitious artistic aims."
