Cory Band has announced that solo horn player Ailsa Russell will be leaving the band this summer.

It will bring to an end a hugely successful tenure as part of the horn section of the Brass in Concert champion — initially as first horn, but subsequently as their hugely respected solo horn.

integral part

The Scot who is relocating away from Wales, joined Cory in 2009 whilst studying at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff and has been an integral part of the band's many successes since.

Speaking about the news, Musical Director Philip Harper told 4BR: "Ailsa is a fabulous member of Cory Band and we will all miss her terribly when she leaves in a few months' time.

We will post a full tribute nearer the time she leaves, but for the moment we want to say a big thank you for all she has done for the band."

White replacement

It has also been confirmed that Besson artist Sheona White will take on the solo horn role. The renowned soloist has guested with the band in the past as well as playing for the likes of YBS Band and Black Dyke.

In welcoming her arrival Philip Harper added: "Sheona has been a friend of Cory Band for a while, and I'm very happy she's agreed to become a permanent member for the next season."