It has been confirmed that the successful 14-year musical partnership between Downshire Brass and Musical Director Prof Michael Alcorn is coming to an end.

Prof Alcorn has taken the decision to step away from the role with the Belfast based band, but will work closely with them over the interim period as they make progress towards a new appointment.

Amazing experience

Speaking about his decision he said: "The last 14 years have been an amazing experience filled with great times in the bandroom, projects, performances and wonderful friendships.

I'll be stepping back but I'm hoping to see out a few key engagements and to help the incoming MD in whatever way I can."

He added: "I've had a blast — they are a wonderful group of musicians who are exemplary in tackling new ideas and commissions and developing new audiences. I wish them all the best."

Inspirational

In response Band Chairperson Robert Mercer added: "We wish to publicly thank Michael for all that he has done for us through his encouragement, vision, drive and tireless work as an inspirational MD."

During their period together Downshire developed into a successful Championship Section competitor in domestic and international banding.

That included representing Northern Ireland at the European Championships, as well as compete at the British Open Spring Festival in addition to claiming several NIBA titles and the First Section Cory Online Championship accolade in 2020.

We wish to publicly thank Michael for all that he has done for us through his encouragement, vision, drive and tireless work as an inspirational MDDownshire Brass

Acclaim

The band also gained an acclaimed reputation for pioneering new explorations in repertoire and teaching initiatives, with their successful youth programme providing a lasting legacy.

A trio of CD recordings and high-profile concert appearances at events such as Royal Hillsborough Castle further confirmed their innovative approach together.

Very best

Robert Mercer added: "What we have gained from Michael and what we will now miss is difficult to put into words. His compositions, his wonderful jazz, disco, rock and swing arrangements now firmly ensconced in our repertoire, have brought brass band music to a whole new audience.

We wish Michael the very best in his future music projects. It has been so much fun, hard work and, most of all, a privilege to play under his baton. He will always be a friend of Downshire Brass."