The 2008 Grand Shield champions Leyland has announced the appointment of Paula Russell as its new principal cornet player.

The band state that they are delighted to have secured a musician of Paula’s calibre and looks forward to her arrival in the new year.

Delighted

Musical Director Jason Katsikaris told 4BR: "I am delighted to welcome Paula to the band. She is a fine soloist and a tremendous leader. She will lead the band with distinction."

On her appointment, Paula remarked to 4BR: "I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with such a distinguished band and its talented conductor and soloists."

International reputation

The new principal cornet has achieved great success as a soloist and has carved out an international reputation for herself. In 2006, she became the Ern Keller International Soloist of the Year and Paula recently won the Barry Tuckwell Brass Prize at the 2008 Melbourne International Festival of Brass. Paula is also an artist for Yamaha Musical Instruments.

I am delighted to welcome Paula to the band. She is a fine soloist and a tremendous leader. She will lead the band with distinctionMD, Jason Katsikaris

Leader

For many years, Paula was a member of the Yorkshire Building Society Band, where she won an array of major titles. When Paula moved to Australia, she became principal cornet of the Brisbane Excelsior Band, leading it to victory on four occasions at the Australian Championships and twice at the New Zealand championships. She is currently principal cornet of National Australia Brass.

Paula will make her debut with the band at the 2009 RNCM Festival of Brass at the end of January.