Ahead of their National Finals assault and Gala Concert appearance, All England Masters and Mineworkers Champion, Desford Colliery have announced the appointment of Tom Davoren as their new Composer in residence.

Mark

Principal Cornet player David Smith told 4BR: "Tom Davoren is making a mark as one of a new breed of exciting young composers currently writing for our medium, and we are happy at Desford to allow Tom to explore his talents to the full. We look forward to a rewarding partnership."

I am very much looking forward to working along side a band with such a rich heritage and reputation for excellenceTom Davoran

CV

Originally from South Wales, Tom is a graduate of the Royal Welsh College of Music, where he studied tuba with Nigel Seaman and is currently reading Music at Cardiff University.

A past member of the Burry Port Town, Buy as You View and PolySteel Bands he is currently director of the Flowers Youth Band in Gloucester.

He is also currently working on new music for percussionist David Danford and baritone soloist Carole Crompton.

Rich heritage

Tom told 4BR: "I am very much looking forward to working along side a band with such a rich heritage and reputation for excellence. Hopefully the band and its audience alike will find my music engaging and enjoyable."

Phoenix rising

The first new work of his tenure with Desford pays homage to the bands resurgence as a contesting force. Titled ‘Phoenix Rising’ it will receive its world premier at the bands Regent Hall National Finals Gala Concert.

He is also starting to pen new music for the bands appearance at the forthcoming Brass in Concert Championship.