Black Dyke's star braitone player Katrina Marzella will step down from her position with the Queensbury Band following the news that she is expecting her second child in May 2020.

Excited

The Yamaha artist told 4BR: "I'm excited that we're expecting our second child in May. Brenden Wheeler and I are absolutely delighted, although a little trepidatious knowing what a wonderful character our three-year-old Gabriella has turned out to be!"

Katrina added: "The news has also turned my mind to my future as a member of Black Dyke.

The band is in great demand across the world and this obviously places significant demands, including countless hours travelling, preparation and planning with family. The schedule is huge and so after giving it great consideration, I feel the time is right to step away."

World class musician

Reflecting on the news, Black Dyke Director of Music, Prof Nicholas Childs commented: "During Katrina's time at Black Dyke she has won European, National, and Open titles as well as individual solo prizes at these prestigious events.

This however only touches the surface of her contribution to band life at Black Dyke. Katrina is an outstanding world class musician and everyone wishes her well as she takes time to enjoy the new addition to the family."

Brenden Wheeler and I are absolutely delighted, although a little trepidatious knowing what a wonderful character our three-year-old Gabriella has turned out to be!Katrina Marzella

Memories

Looking back on her time with Black Dyke, Katrina also reflected on numerous highlights — although she admitted that she was also looking forward an equally busy time in the future!

"There is of course, sadness when you leave such a great institution like Black Dyke. I will always consider it a great privilege to have been a player in the band and take with me so many fantastic musical memories.

I have a number of other interesting projects in the pipeline before turning my mind to my musical future, and of course what I know from experience will be a very busy and wonderful family addition.

In the meantime, I would like to thank Prof Childs and everyone at Black Dyke Band for their friendship, support, and musical memories. I wish them all the best fortune for the future and know I will retain a special relationship with them for many years to come."