The British Open Champion, Tredegar has announced the singing of two new players ahead of the 2011 season.
Impressed
Ex Flowers star Danny Winder has replaced Zoe Hancock on flugel horn, whilst the band welcomes back Gwyn Press on Bb tuba.
M.D. Ian Porthouse told 4BR: "Having worked with Danny in the past there was no doubt who I wanted to fill the seat. He has always impressed me with his great solo performances at various concert and contest stages, albeit with our opponents!
He has a wonderful flugel sound, whilst his ability to create a real sense of performance will only strengthen the band."
Old friend
The conductor is also delighted to welcome back an old friend on tuba too: "Gwyn is something of a legend in these parts and his return after eight years of army service is a major boost. He has already started to make an impression on the sound structure of the band."
Both players made their debuts at the band’s recent charity concert at Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff, where they played a major role in helping raise funds for the Velindre Cancer Centre.
Danny performed Peter Graham’s beautiful arrangement of ‘Away in A Manger’, whilst as Ian ruefully pointed out, Gwyn helped rumble the foundations of the great building!
We are now looking forward, and Danny’s and Gwyn’s arrival means that we are at full strength to continue and develop furtherMD, Ian Porthouse
Moves
The return of the tuba player sees Jake Pritchard move to Eb tuba, whilst the band will shortly be enjoying a celebration evening, where they will look back at a historic 2010 season.
Forward
Ian continued: "We are now looking forward, and Danny’s and Gwyn’s arrival means that we are at full strength to continue and develop further. Unfortunately, we have had to say goodbye to Zoe Hancock who has joined Black Dyke. She has been a wonderful performer and member of the band and we all wish her the very best."
The MD concluded: "2010 was a fantastic year, but it is now part of the history of the band. Our focus is now very much on 2011."
