Grimethorpe Colliery Band has announced that their celebrated Eb tuba player Shaun Crowther has retired from playing with the Yorkshire ensemble.
A spokesperson said: "Grimethorpe Colliery Band is sad to be saying goodbye to Shaun after almost 17 years of loyal and dedicated service.
An exemplary bandsman, superlative section leader, soloist and character of legendary status(!), Shaun will be sorely missed by everyone associated with the band."
Finest
Long regarded as one of the finest Eb tuba players in the British brass banding movement, during his tenure with Grimethorpe (who he joined following 25 years at Fairey Band) he became one of the most recognisable personalities in top flight banding, with his playing (as well as his dry humour) becoming an integral part of Grimethorpe's success on the contest and concert stage.
He was part of the band that won six Brass in Concert titles, a brace of National Championships in 2006 and 2007, the British Open in 2015, two Yorkshire Area titles, two English National crowns, and a National Mineworkers Championship.
Stuff of legend
In addition, his performances in Grimethorpe concert and entertainment contest programmes became the stuff of legend — although his deadpan humour and impeccable comic timing never totally submerged the outstanding musical abilities that accompanied it.
The spokesperson added: "In addition to Shaun's work with the senior band his commitment to assisting in the development of the Grimethorpe Youth band over recent years has been outstanding.
his performances in Grimerthorpe concert and entertainment contest programmes became the stuff of legend — although his deadpan humour and impeccable comic timing never totally submerged the outstanding musical abilities that accompanied it4BR
Future
Given Shaun's ongoing professional commitment to the education of young brass players we look forward to continuing our relationship with him in this area in the future".
It is understood that an announcement regarding his replacement will be made shortly.
