Defending Brass in Concert champion Cory will take to the stage with a new front row cornet team.

Returning to the fold after enjoying a hugely successful decade with the band from 2033 -2013 is Chris Turner.

In recent years he has developed his conducting career, notably with Llwydcoed Band, and said: "When asked to play at the Nationals in October I jumped at the opportunity. It was great to be part of that sound again."

Chris replaces David Hale who has taken a step back from his commitment after helping the band to a brace of Grand Slams (2016 and 2019).

It has meant that Gareth Johnson has moved to the bumper-up chair. The RWCMD graduate was a student of Chris Turner and has moved up through the section after first joining Cory on second cornet in 2014.

Full house

With Tom Hutchinson and Owain Llestyn already in place, this represents a full house of RWCMD-connected players (where they are Band in Residence).

Commenting on the new line-up MD Philip Harper said: "I'm so pleased to welcome Chris back and his experience is already rubbing off on our otherwise youthful team!

Gareth's journey has also been very gratifying to witness and he's taken advantage of every opportunity offered to him."

He added: "Our thanks go to David Hale who has been a fantastic player with us."