The UniBrass Foundation has announced the appointment of new trustees to its board.

It follows a competitive application process, with a spokesperson saying that the new members "bring a range of crucial skills and experience to help the charity continue in its work."

New appointments

Peter Baumann is a multi-disciplinary creative based in North Yorkshire. Having studied at the University of York, he now combines work as a digital producer, musician, and composer. He has board extensive experience in finance and governance as an elected town councillor.

Katherine Slater works at Keele University, having previously been the conductor of their brass band. Originally an oboist and vocalist, she now plays percussion with Rode Hall Silver Band and has a continued passion for amateur dramatics and singing.

Sebastian Hamilton is a cornet playing engineer based in Portsmouth. During his time at the University of Warwick, Sebastian attended all of the UniBrass contests and is passionate about being part of the continuation and expansion of UniBrass's reach.

Sam Kail-Dyke is a music student at the University of Bristol and plays an active part in music making across the city. He is the former conductor of the university brass band as well as current MD of the City of Bristol Band learner band. Prior to university Sam worked as a marketing and communications manager for a large multi-academy trust.

Michelle Edmands studied music at the University of Exeter before moving to London to train as an accountant. After taking a break from performing to focus on her career and family, she has now returned to banding and is keen to use her experience to support the Foundation to continue to achieve its aims.

James Everitt is a PhD student in Maths at the University of Warwick, having completed an MMath at Durham University. A cornet player introduced to brass bands by the Wigan Music Service, James served as the chair of the contest organising committee for the 2023 UniBrass contest and looks forward to continuing his work with the Foundation as a trustee.

The new team has already overseen another successful UniBrass contest and are working towards a number further events, including the return of the UniBrass Band Camp and the next UniBrass event in February 20244BR

Thanks

The UniBrass spokesperson added: "We would like to express our thanks to outgoing trustees Brett Baker, Ewan Saunders, Abi Groocock, Megan Bousfield, and Andy Straiton, for their dedication and work as part of the Foundation."

4BR was informed that Thomas Hicken, Andy Baldacchino, Sam Hartharn-Evans and Voirrey Baker continue to serve on the board.

Future events

The new team has already overseen another successful UniBrass contest and are working towards a number further events, including the return of the UniBrass Band Camp in August and the next UniBrass event at Warwick University in February 2024.