There has been a high-profile soprano player swap between Cory and GUS Bands as Jack Wilson joins the Welsh champion, with Carys Wood taking on the role with the Midlands Area winner.

Jack takes on the full-time role following Carys who performed with the band whenever her studies at the Royal Academy of Music allowed. She will however perform with Cory at the forthcoming British Open before making her debut with GUS at the National Final in London, where Jack will play with Cory.

Outstanding

Jack is now a successful freelance player after completing his studies at the Royal College of Music, graduating with First Class Honours and a master's degree in performance. He combined his studies with playing for GUS, enjoying considerable success.

In welcoming him to Cory, after making an impressive debut at the recent World Music Contest in Kerkrade, MD Philip Harper also took time to pay tribute to Carys who he said had been "outstanding".

"We're delighted Carys will perform with us at the British Open and we look forward to continuing to support her musical development whenever opportunities arise and to maintaining a close relationship with her as her career progresses. I'd also like to thank her parents for their unwavering support and encouragement."

He added: "I'm delighted that Jack has accepted our offer. He is an outstanding musician and, just as importantly, brings superb character to the band: committed, humble and full of positive energy.

His professionalism and enthusiasm have made a strong impression on everyone, and we are all looking forward to having him on board full-time as we build towards an exciting future."

Honour

In response Jack said: "It's a real honour to be asked to join Cory, and I'm looking forward to continuing to be part of such a fantastic group and contributing to many more great performances together.

I would also like to thank GUS Band for their encouragement and support throughout my musical development over the years, and I wish them every success in the future."

Carys will perform with Cory at the forthcoming British Open before making her debut with GUS at the National Final in London, where Jack will play with Cory4BR

GUS thrilled

In confirming their delight at the signing of Carys, Christopher Bond, MD of GUS Band stated: "We're thrilled to welcome Carys for the National Finals and Brass in Concert. She's a fantastic young talent, and I'm confident she'll be a great fit for the band, both musically and personally."

He continued; "I must also thank Jack, whose affiliation with the band stretches back over a decade. Since rejoining the band two years ago, Jack's won a whole host of solo prizes and was the band's 2025 Players' Player — and we wish him every success as he relocates to Wales and begins a new chapter with Cory."

In response, Carys added: "I'm really looking forward to playing with GUS. They're two events I've always wanted to play at, and I'm so excited for the opportunity to perform with such a fantastic band.

I'd also like to thank Philip Harper and everyone at Cory for all the opportunities, experience and support and they've given me throughout my musical development."