*
banner

Baker brings Police role to a close

Leigh Baker has decided to step down from his role as Musical Director of South Yorkshire Police Band after 14 years at the helm.

Baker
  The highlight of the tenure was a fine National Championship victory.

After nearly fourteen successful years leading the South Yorkshire Police Band, Leigh Baker has stepped down from the role as Musical Director.

His tenure saw the band build in confidence and consistency to claim Yorkshire Area titles in 2011 and again in 2019 in the Second Section which led to them going on to claim the National title in Cheltenham.

The band also enjoyed other local contesting success as well as building a fine reputation for their concert appearances.

Travel time

Leigh's recent house move has increased his travel time to South Yorkshire, and after great deliberation, he has taken the decision to step down after the busy Christmas season.

He told 4BR: "I'm sad to be moving on. The band is in great shape with a fabulous set up and ethos, and I'm sure they will continue to make significant progress. I'm looking forward to new (nearer!) challenges in the new year."

Leigh's time with the band has been so fruitful in terms of high-quality concerts and contests. We are sorry to see him go and wish him well in his future venturesSouth Yorkshire Police Band

Fruitful

Band Manager, Simon Davies added: "Leigh's time with the band has been so fruitful in terms of high-quality concerts and contests. We are sorry to see him go and wish him well in his future ventures."

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    


Bedworth

Midlands Area confirm 2027 judges

November 2 • The adjudication teams for the 2027 Midlands Regional Championships have been announced.


Marsden

Marsden able to continue to honour lost lives

November 1 • Marsden Silver Prize Band's historic bass drum has been restored from flood damage to ensure the sacrifice of those lost in conflict is never forgotten,


Eikanger

Eikanger continues link with youth

November 1 • The Siddis champion has been continuing its inspirational links with youth bands and organisations in its Bergen region.


Cornelian Parker

Perpetual Canon seen but not heard in Wellington

November 1 • Cornelia Parker's celebrated art installation is currently on display in New Zealand.


Dobcross Silver Band - Remembrance Concert

Sunday 8 November • Dobcross Band Club. Platt Lane. Dobcross. Oldham OL3 5AD


Regent Hall Concerts - Band of the RAF Regiment Brass Ensemble

Friday 20 November • Regent Hall (The Salvation Army). 275 Oxford Street. London W1C2DJ


Bilton Silver Rugby Band - Bilton Silver President's Concert

Friday 27 November • St George's Church, St Johns Avenue, Rugby CV22 5HR


West Yorkshire Police Band - Mid Yorkshire Breast Cancer Support

Saturday 28 November • Cluntergate Centre, Horbury WF4 5DA


Newstead Brass - The Snowman - Live

Saturday 5 December • Forest Town Arena. Clipstone Road West, Forest Town. Mansfield NG19 0EE


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

November 2 • Under the leadership of Musical Director, Jack Fisher, the band requires a percussionist. With an expanding schedule of events, including our sell-out themed concerts, the band is based in our own, purpose built, band hall in Bilton.


Bilton Silver Rugby Band

November 2 • Under the leadership of Musical Director, Jack Fisher, the band requires an Eb bass player. With an expanding schedule of events, including our sell-out themed concerts, the band is based in our own, purpose built, band hall in Bilton.


Cambrian Brass

November 1 • We are always happy to hear from anyone interested in joining our friendly, supportive band, whether you are returning to banding, looking for a new challenge, or have moved to Aberystwyth for university.


John Maines

BA (Hons)
Presenter, compere and conductor


               

 © 2026 4barsrest.com Ltd