4BR has been informed of the death of the popular photographer and respected brass band musician, Dave Morris.

Actively involved in the banding movement in the Midlands and Yorkshire for many years, he died suddenly on Sunday 29th October.

Talented

Dave was the Musical Director of the Woodhouse Prize Silver Band and a cornet player with Chapeltown Silver Prize Band, as well as being a very talented photographer and recording engineer.

He worked tirelessly as a key volunteer for Bolsover Festival of Brass and Bolsover International Brass Band Summer School for nine years, as well as being involved in a number of other projects including those with the Halle Orchestra, Foden's and Black Dyke Bands.

More recently, Dave also took on photography with Black Dyke and the Wychavon Festival of Brass.

Founder member

A founder member of the Bolsover International Brass Band Summer School, Dave was heavily involved in its planning and organisation alongside Course Administrator Carole Crompton. He led many of the social activities, including taking delegates on the enjoyable narrow boat trips along the Chesterfield Canal which he organised each year.

Dave worked tirelessly on the development of the Summer School and recently created its new website.

Giving back

Always quick to admit that having worked with brass bands, photography and recording was his way of expanding his interests and giving something back to the community he gained so much enjoyment from.

His website 'Brass Snaps' brought a great deal of pleasure to thousands of banding musicians who were able to enjoy his images through Facebook.

Dave also played a variety of musical instruments, from violin and recorder to cornet and piano, which he only started learning when he reached his 40s — going on to reach Grade 8 standard.

His support of the banding movement was well respected and he spent most weekends at some event, accompanied by his son Daniel, a very talented euphonium player.

Full time job

In addition to his musical activities he was also a trustee of the Chesterfield Canal Trust and a RYA certified training instructor. It was a surprise to many people that he also had a full time job as an IT Manager.

Commenting on behalf of Bolsover Festival of Brass and Bolsover International Brass Band Summer School, Carole Crompton told 4BR: "We are totally shocked and saddened at the news of Dave's passing. He will be sorely missed as he was irreplaceable to us in his various roles within our team.

He was the most enthusiastic supporter of the banding movement, and his talents and personality will be greatly missed by everyone.

As a personal friend you could not ask for anyone more loyally supportive than Dave, and like so many others, I will miss him on so many levels."

He was the most enthusiastic supporter of the banding movement, and his talents and personality will be greatly missed by everyoneCarole Crompton

Funeral details

Dave is survived by his wife Caroline and son Daniel, his mother Doreen and sister, Allison.

Another announcement will be made shortly once funeral arrangements are known.