A new musical partnership has been unveiled at Wingates Band with the appointment of Matt Ryan as Musical Director.

It follows the decision of Andrea Price to step down following the North West Regional Championships earlier this year.

That ended an impressive two-year tenure of rejuvenation in which the band created new musical partnerships and re-established itself as a competitive force in the Championship Section.

Thanks

A band spokesperson told 4BR: "We are hugely thankful to Andrea and wish her well with her musical endeavours. With the appointment of Matt Ryan, we are looking forward to building on this."

They added: "Matt is the perfect choice to take the band forward. We have no doubt that his skill, enthusiasm and passion will result in a great musical partnership."

Deligted

Matt, who recently stepped down from the MD role at City of Bradford Band, added: "I'm delighted to accept this position with a band with such a progressive attitude and commitment to musical excellence.

As a local lad I needed no introduction to the wonderful cultural asset that is Wingates. I look forward to continuing the work began so positively by Andrea."

I'm delighted to accept this position with a band with such a progressive attitude and commitment to musical excellenceMatt Ryan

Proud

Looking back on her tenure Andrea Price said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time and am proud to have seen the band through their 150th anniversary, culminating in a memorable concert with Peter Moore.

After a strong North-West Area result and some exciting new signings, I'm confident that the band will continue to go from strength to strength.

I am now stepping away from conducting for a while to focus on composition. I hope to continue my association with the Wingates and we are looking at a number of exciting projects over the coming months."