Wire Brass

Musical Director – Paul Andrews

Like many young people I took my first tentative steps into the world of brass banding by picking up a cornet at the age of 11. I got off to a flying start as I was under the guidance of my father, Len Andrews, who at the time was conducting his own band, Warrington Youth Band, playing the cornet, however, proved to be more difficult than I thought so I made the transition to euphonium by the time I was 14 (some would say because I had a big mouth!). Under the guidance of the legendary euphonium player Lyndon Baglin I soon found other interested parties, in particular Richard Evans and the Leyland Vehicles Band. It could have proved costly but at that time I spurned the advances of a very persuasive Mr. Evans.At the age of 18 it was time to move on joining Roberts Bakery Band in 1979 together with my mates Andy Dale, Paul Taylor and Mike Mcloughlin “It was the to light the blue touch paper and bring the sleepy suburbs of Northwich to their feet”! Their colourful musical director (usually crimson) Colin Cranson, was a great influence at that time and remains with Roberts Bakery to this day.

The lure of playing with Leyland however proved to be too compelling and I finally joined the band in 1983. The next six years proved to be the most exciting, eventful and rewarding years that I have experienced to date. Leyland is synonymous with team spirit and camaraderie, essential qualities for any top band. Long standing friendships were forged over that period and the band was truly unique. However I can never underestimate the role that Richard ‘Mr. Motivator’ Evans played in bring that to fruition.It would seem inevitable that just as my father did, I too would eventually take up the baton. In the early years I cut my teeth (and broke a few as well) with bands like Bedford Leigh and City of Stoke-on-Trent. In 1994 however, I was to be given my ‘big break’ and I was asked to conduct Besses O’Th’ Barn Band. In that same year I was honoured to be given the chance to conduct the band to the British Open Championships, then held at the Free Trade Hall, Manchester. I left Besses later that year to take up another challenge working with my great friend John Hinckley and the Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band. For the next five years our remit was to breathe new life into a sleeping giant. We felt out job was pretty much done after achieving a World Ranking of 7th over that period.However, my biggest challenge was yet to come, with the formation of Wire Brass in September 2001. A band that I hope will one day achieve top section status and become something that the people of Warrington will be proud of. The band has been built on the same principles that my mentor Richard Evans set out all those years ago of team spirit, dedication and commitment. All these qualities can never be achieved however without the fundamental ethic of hard work. We’ve made a good start but the journey is long and, as I have found out, not without a few bumps along the way. The band’s current standing of 1st section is an achievement in itself and I would like to take this opportunity of thanking all the players that have had some part to play in its success to date. The final push for Championship glory is like looking up to the summit of Mount Everest, but I, together with the rest of the band relish the challenge ahead.P.S The FutureAs of the 3rd July 2005, I am proud to announce that Wire Brass will have not only one but two bands within the organisation. Not only am I proud and privileged to be the Musical Director of a progressive first section band, but can now boast a completely new venture. Wire Youth Band has been erected at a time when many bands are finding it hard to keep existing players in their respective folds. Whilst I won’t personally have day to day contact with the Youth Band, I will of course be keeping a watchful eye on our next generation of players for Wire Brass. I wish them all great success and under the guidance of Jo Sherry and Jo Dale I know that they will only go form strength to strength. Good luck everyone and remember “There are no shortcuts to the top”.

You can contact me at

Paul Andrews, 80 Orford Lane, Warrington, WA2 7AF

Tel : 01925 658444

Email :brasstoff@btconnect.com

Principal Cornet – Mike Jones

Born in Bangor, North Wales and a native of Anglesey, Mike began playing the cornet at 8 years old with the Beaumaris and District Band. He quickly became the principal cornet within 2 years and as he progressed through the Gwynedd county system he became the youngest principal cornet of the Gwynedd Youth Brass Band at the age of 14. After a successful period at Beaumaris Mike joined the Point of Ayr Colliery Band at the age of 15 on assistant principal cornet. Added to this he successfully auditioned for the National Youth Brass Band of Wales and in 1996 led the band on Principal cornet for their summer course and concerts.

Upon gaining a place a Salford University in 1995 Mike joined the Yorkshire Building Society Band and was involved in many of their successes including the 1996 and 1997 wins at the European Championships. Whilst at university Mike played and travelled all over the world including tours of Brazil, Ecuador, Scotland and Norway. During this time Mike competed in every major competition and played at most of the countries most prestigious venues.

After leaving university and moving back to Wales Mike rejoined the Point of Ayr Band, this time on principal cornet. Mike was instrumental in the band becoming Welsh Champions and gaining a famous 3rd place at the European Championships, beating his former band YBS into 4th place. After three years of loyal service and the sad demise of the band Mike decided to move back to the North West and join the BT Band on principal cornet along side good friend and colleague Michael Fowles.

Mike has played and guested with many of Britain’s top bands including Brighouse and Rastrick, Leyland, Fodens, and Grimethorpe to name but a few. Mike has also appeared on many CD recordings with the bands he has played for, featuring within the bands and as a featured soloist.

Since June 2003 Mike has been the Principal cornet of Bactiguard Wire Brass based in his adopted town of Warrington, Cheshire. This came about after an approach from Paul Andrews and old friend from Point of Ayr days, Andy Dale. Mike firmly believes that he is a member of one of the countries most progressive and innovative bands and is striving forward along with Paul Andrews for continued success.

Added to his playing commitments Mike has also conducted the Llandudno Town Band, Conwy Band, Golborne Band and has been the associate conductor of Wire Brass.

Mike’s noticeable solo triumphs have come mainly in his native Wales

North Wales Slow Melody Champion on 6 occasions

North Wales Air Varie Champion on 4 occasions

Rhyl Festival of Brass Solo Champion on 4 occasions

Texaco Young Musician of Wales

Urdd National Eisteddfod Instrumental Champion

National Eisteddfod of Wales Blue Ribband Instrumental Champion

Solo Cornet – James Hatton

I first started playing the cornet at Fairfield Junior School, Widnes. I was nine years old and my teacher was Russell Grey. I moved on to Fairfield High School where my teacher was Tony Whittingham. I started to play in the school Wind Band and Halton Schools Concert Band. It was at this time I passed my grade 5 and we bought my Yamaha Maestro Cornet.

In 2001 I joined the Warrington Schools Concert Band and the Cheshire Youth Brass Band and played in two big concerts at Arley Hall jointly with Brighouse and Rastrick and Sellers International.

In 2002 I moved on to Widnes Sixth Form College where I studied Music, Music Technology, Maths and Chemistry at A-level. Mr. Whittingham formed a Brass Group with pupils from the Sixth Form and Fairfield High School which I was apart of.

At the end of 2002 I began having cornet lessons with Andrew Macdonald. It was he who contacted Wire Brass and in January 2003 I became a member of Wire Brass playing 4th solo cornet.

I have now been with the band for 6 years (in January 2009) and I am now second man down to Mike Jones. I have just graduated from the Royal Northern College of Music where I studied cornet and trumpet and I started my PGCE music course (in classroom and instrumental teaching) in September this year (2008). I have been living in Manchester now for 5 years and hope to stay here for a few more yet.

I enjoy playing trumpet just as much as cornet and I have had many opportunities with Wire Brass to play trumpet solos (like Children of Sanchez). I also enjoy doing a bit of composition for Wire Brass.

Other Interests:

I love cooking, eating out, going to the cinema, listening to music (all of these things with Nik) and playing table tennis in Widnes with my dad when I get time.

Solo Cornet – Lynne Rigby

I come from a brass band family so I started to play the cornet at age 9 and was taught by my dad Bob Houlton who played on the front row at Wingates with his brother Joe in the 60’s. I joined my first band, Golborne, because my dad and my two brothers played there. I worked my way through the cornet ranks and became principal cornet at age 16. I ended up staying with this band for 30 years playing principal for most of that time – doesn’t time fly when you’re having fun. During this period I did help out many other bands in the area including a scratch band made up of players from Wingates, Yorkshire Imps. Leyland etc that accompanied the soloists in the Air Varie contests held at Wigan Pier.

In 2003 after 30 happy years at Golborne I decided it was time to move on and I signed as 3rd ‘man’ at Haydock. While here I achieved the highlight of my banding career so far by performing in the National Finals at The Royal Albert Hall, London.

In 1997 I branched out musically and took up the piano. I worked my way through the grades and passed grade 5 within 5 years and gained 95% in grade 5 theory.

I am married to Steve who’s claim to fame is that he is only the 62nd person to dive in a small submersible, the two and a half miles, down to the bottom of the Atlantic to photograph the wreck of the Titanic and as he is not a musician he patiently puts up with the practicing I do on the cornet and the piano.

Solo Cornet – Nikki Jones

Started playing at the age of 6 – played in the Northeast for a school band until we moved to Hampshire in 1986.

The following summer I auditioned for the Hampshire County Youth Band – I entered into the Junior band that September and managed to work my way into the main County band when I was 15. I left in 1995 when I went to Salford University where I played in both brass bands, also many 1st sections and championship section bands including BT & Point of Ayr. I met Mike, principal cornet, at University and we have been together ever since.

Commitment to Championship became pressured so I decided to give banding a rest for while; in that break I was approached by Andy Dale (an old friend from Point of Ayr days) to join Wire.

After a long think I joined in July 2002 on principal cornet – which was a great experience and helped with my confidence. I have moved about on the cornet section since, finding a home on the back row whilst I was pregnant with our first child, Owen.

Within 2 months of Owen’s birth I was back playing with the band at Fleetwood – it was nice to be part of the Wire Brass team again.

Owen attends band with his mum & dad – finding great amusement keeping George busy with various noises or sleeping!!!

Favourite piece – ‘SOUNDS’ – as it brings back some happy memories.

Worst piece – ‘VARIATIONS ON AN ENIGMA’ – nasty double-tonguing parts (not my best area)

Favourite moment – Being part of the Wire Brass as we climb through the sections

Worst moment – Being very ill on the way home from the Northwest Area 2002. Also not being able to play at the Nationals this year due to having Owen.

To the future – I want to get back to the standard of playing I was before I was pregnant, so I can get my teeth stuck into the next years test pieces. Also to enjoy the challenges that will be thrown at me (whatever they maybe).

Soprano Cornet – Billy Parkinson

I started playing on Bb cornet aged 8 with the Haydock Youth Band. For the next six years I enjoyed a spell on the back row at The Haydock Band and on the front row at Rainford Band. At the age of 15 I saw the light and moved on to the soprano cornet. For a year or so I flitted between Bb and Eb and finally, shortly before my 16th birthday, after passing my audition for the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain I moved to sop full time. At roughly the same time I moved to the Skelmersdale band where, under the baton of Charlie Dickinson and later Paul Andrews, we enjoyed a fair amount of contest success including a visit to the Albert Hall for the 2000 finals. At the same time I was the principal sop player at St. Helens youth band where we won four national titles in four years. I sat for my first course with the NYBBGB in 2000 and held the seat of principal sop for the duration of my three year stint. During this time I left St. Helens and began studying at York University for my Masters Degree in Mathematics. At this time I left the Skelmersdale band and took the soprano chair at the Haydock Band. This was purely a contesting role as I could make no practices but we still achieved some great results with highlights being 5th and the North West areas and a win at Rhyl contest. This seat was only ever temporary and a year later it was time to move on. After a year of regaining feeling in my chops I was given the opportunity to play with the Rothwell Band and snapped at it. I sat on the front row there for two years until finally graduating from Uni in 2005 with a first class masters in Maths. I moved to Wire Brass in November 2005 and am looking forward to some serious contesting again. I now work in property finance as a commercial banker for the Royal Bank of Scotland Group. In my spare time, which is more sparse than spare thanks to Mr. Andrews, I enjoy playing darts, golf and generally getting drunk.

Repiano Cornet – Andrew ‘Max’ Power

Andrew started playing aged 9 in Australia and has played with Moorbbih Band, Durebih City Brass – Preston Band, Darebih City Brass (Northern Brass) and now Bactiguard Wire Brass.

His favourite music is Connnotations (Gregson) and Traditional Jazz (Louise Armstrong etc)

His most memorable musical experience was winning the Australian National Championships as conductor in ‘open C’ grade 2009

He also loves the music of Mnozil Brass (watch this space – the band are performing with them next year!)

2nd Cornet – John Breeze

Born in Liverpool, John began playing the cornet at 5 years old. His first experience of banding was with Liverpool School’s Brass Band. When aged 14 John’s family moved to Lymm near Warrington at which time he joined Warrington Silver Band and also became a member of the Cheshire Youth and National Youth Bands.

After leaving school John studied for a Music Degree at Huddersfield Polytechnic between 1979 and 1982. During this time he had a spell with Slaithwaite Band and was also a member of the Merseyside Youth Orchestra.

After leaving Huddersfield John came back to the North West and joined Newton Heath Band before moving to CWS Manchester Band for a number of years.

There was then a break from banding for about 4 years. John was then asked to play for Trafford Band before moving to Wingates for a period of 4 years.

In 1995 he joined BNFL (Leyland) Band where he stayed for 8 years. During this time the band went on three tours of America within a 3 year period. John was proud to be awarded Bandsman of the Year for 2 years on the row.

In 2003 John joined Fairey’s Band, in which time he experienced his first European Championship in Glasgow. A year later he was asked to join Foden’s Band which had always been an ambition as his Dad had played 2nd trombone with the band for many years.

Outside of banding John is a music teacher and Head of Year at Wellacre Technology College in Flixton where he has been for 23 years. John loves his football and is a Kop season ticket holder at Liverpool Football Club. He lives in Thelwall, near Warrington with his wife Jane and their 2 dogs, Breezy the springer spaniel and Meg the cocker spaniel !

2nd Cornet – Karen Mann

1974 (cornet) Urmston and Davyhulme Silver ‘B’ Band

At the tender age of 8 decided to learn an instrument. Went along to UDSB and joined the junior band on 3rd cornet. Sick to death of park jobs and carnivals – but hey it was good fun. Progressed through the ranks and ended up on Principal Cornet at the age of 12.

1982 Promoted to Urmston and Davyhulme Silver ‘A’ Band

Was invited to audition for back row cornet of the ‘A’ band. The band was under the direction of Frank Bryce at that time. Over the years conductors came and went such as Geoff Seal, Ernie Vint. Along came Jeff Norris who took over and worked us through the ranks into the Championship section. Had a great time and loved every minute, loved the people, great atmosphere. Played with some brilliant musicians under brilliant conductors. Competed in major competitions winning the North West Areas on Dimensions. The band went onto recording a CD at the BBC under the direction of Paul Hindmarsh with the help of Gordon Higginbottom.

1991 All Change …… Flugel Horn for Trafford Band

Other conductors came and went like Kevin Bolton, Steve Beardsmore and then along came Mark Condron who took the band onto greater heights winning everything they were entered into. During Mark’s time, Trafford went short for a Flugel so I offered my services. Best move I ever made. Thoroughly enjoyed the challenge of the test pieces played during that time such as The Force of Destiny, John O’Gaunt, Paganni Variations and my ultimate favourite, the Year of the Dragon.

1994 – Time for a Change – 2nd Cornet at Besses o’th Barn

Had two cracking years at Besses under the direction of Derek Broadbent, Anthony Briggs and shortly before I left to be a “Mummy” Steve Beardsmore.

1996 – Baby time

2002 – Wire Brass

After a long rest I have been brought out of retirement by the combined efforts of husband Stuart and Mr Andrews himself. Luckily James our son enjoys banding – has no choice really with both his parents playing.

2003 and beyond…… who knows.

Favourite pieces

Year of the Dragon, Pagannini Variations

Most disliked pieces

Cloudcatcher Fells and Christmas Carols.

Other Interests

Drum widow to Stuart Mann (“Sticky” to his Friends).

Shopping, shopping and more shopping.

Worst Moments

Marrying a drummer!!!!

3rd Cornet – Gareth Roberts

Garath ha sjust finished studying at Huddersfield University and has returned to his home town of Widnes. More details to follow when he completes his ‘player profile’ form !!

Flugel Horn – Andrea Egginton

I was brought up in Egremont, West Cumbria and after trying various musical instruments starting with the recorder at the age of six, I eventually settled on playing the cornet. I was taught at St. Benedict’s in Whitehaven by my school music teacher, Stewart Thorp, and also by the local brass peripatetic, Simon Yeo. During this time I played for the local town bands in Egremont & Whitehaven and also went to France twice with the Cockermouth Mechanics band. I joined Flimby Saxhorn Silver Band in 1987 and enjoyed a couple of trips to the national finals (always held in London in those days). Whilst at school I also played for the West Cumbria Youth Symphony Orchestra and the Cumbria County Youth Brass Band.

In 1989 I left West Cumbria for West Yorkshire to study Music at Bretton Hall where I gained a BA (Hons) degree from Leeds University in 1992. Whilst I was there I played for the Yorkshire Water Clifton and Lightcliffe band. I returned to West Cumbria and Flimby Band in 1992 and went to the national finals again that year. The following year Flimby won the Northern Area 1st section at the first time of asking – a feat that Wire Brass repeated in 2006.

I moved to Cheshire in 1995 where I joined Roberts Bakery Band and remained there for 8 years, until I left in November 2003.

I joined Wire Brass on soprano cornet at the end of August 2004, just in time for the 2nd section national finals. After changing seats within the cornet section at least a dozen times I was offered the flugel seat in January 2006.

I’m currently employed by UTV Radio (GB) and I’m the Station Accountant for Signal Radio & Wire FM. In my spare (?) time I’m studying for a professional accountancy qualification, and I obviously do my flugel practice. I also like to take Poppy the dog for walkies, and spend time with my long-suffering band widower husband, Steve.

Solo Horn – Annabel Stapleton

I’m not sure who really reads this kind of stuff, it’s not at all glamorous, but if you’re interested…..

…At 7, I began learning the cornet after I’d seen my Grandad play it, thinking it looked like a good idea. (13 years later, I realised it wasn’t such a good idea – for me anyway!!! )

However, I played at school, where my brass teacher was Granville Jennings. At the time he conducted Berisfords Brass Band and in 1989 he invited me to play on the back row for a short time, to gain some experience – for which I am very grateful.

I spent most of my early secondary school years playing for various school music groups, and 2 of those years were also spent with Normid 2000 Youth, where I had my first experience of a contest!

In 1993 I joined the Cheshire Youth Brass Band, with whom I enjoyed two trips to the U.S.A. Trying out flugel on the way, I eventually ended up on 2nd man down.

In 1994 I joined the Lions Youth Band, in Crewe, and although I was only in the band for 18 months, it was a great 18 months; making my way onto Principal Cornet, going on tours, doing concerts, but most of all becoming the National Youth Champions in 1995.

In 1995 I left home for University in Lancaster, where I joined (the band formerly known as) Morecambe Nuclear Electric Band. I enjoyed a couple of years there and it was with them that I moved onto tenor horn. Probably the best thing I’ve ever done (in the banding world that is!)

Whilst in my final year at Lancaster, I met my banding-widower husband, Andy, and joined Roberts Bakery Band.

At Roberts’ I moved onto Solo Horn and had the good fortune to record solos on their 3 most recent recordings. I also enjoyed many an eventful trip to Holland, France and Germany!!!

Since parting company with Roberts’ at the end of 2003, I have managed to have some taste of success, gaining a place at the National Finals in Harrogate with United Norwest 2000, and subsequently, playing at the Finals with Wire Brass.

When I’m not busy being a primary school teacher or being at band, for my sins I support Tottenham Hotspur – well someone has to!

1st Horn – Laura Smallwood

2nd Horn – David Wood

Solo Baritone – Maz Cliff

Marrianne hails from Dalry, Ayrshire and began playing (cornet) at the age of 11 with the North Ayrshire Youth Band. Quickly changing on to baritone, she progressed through the ranks of the band, onto euphonium. Marrianne is proud to have been a member of the National Youth Brass Band of Scotland for five years, where she finished her stint there on solo euphonium under the guidance of Richard Evans. Whilst in Scotland, Marrianne played with Dalmellington and Riverside Brass.

Aged 21, Maz moved to England to study Band Musicianship at the University of Salford, learning baritone with Peter Christian, and graduating in 1997 with a first class honours degree. Maz has played with a few bands in England including Eccles Borough, Hawk Green Marple, Pemberton Old (Wigan), Besses o’ th’ Barn and Wingates. Maz joined Wire in October 2007 for Pontins contest, and enjoyed the crack so much she decided to stay on!

In August 2007, Marrianne was delighted to go on tour to the USA and Canada with the Young Ambassadors Brass Band of Great Britain. This amazing tour included trips to Niagara Falls, where they were fortunate to go over the Falls in a helicopter, and Tornoto – oh and 14 concerts in two weeks with a band who had never played together before! A fantastic experience, not least because of the wonderful people in the band and looking after us over there, Marrianne is saving hard to go back next year!

Marrianne works at the University of Salford as Programme Administrator – Music, where her duties are basically to look after the life cycle of the student (all 600 of them!) from registration through to graduation, with everything in-between! Maz enjoys reading and baking in her spare time (what spare time?!) and has been known to make a rather mean chilli on occasions. Marrianne got engaged to Owen (who plays BBb Bass for Faireys) just four weeks ago, and they are busy planning their December 2010 wedding.

In true website tradition:

Favourite piece: Edward Gregson’s, ‘Of Men and Mountains’

Worst piece: Didn’t much like ‘Life Divine’ for obvious reasons!

Favourite Band Moment: Em, lots of them, everytime you win something, being a soloist with Besses o’ th’ Barn on Listen to the Band, playing at the Albert Hall in the 2000 National Finals with Pemberton Old

2nd Baritone – Alison Laycock

I started playing tenor horn aged 10 when I refused to play the cornet like everyone else!

I worked my way through the grades under the direction of André Helleur and began my brass-banding career with Normid 2000 Youth Brass. Moving onwards and upwards I became a member of the Cheshire County Youth Brass Band, touring Europe and visited America. In the meantime I joined Audley Brass and quickly secured the solo horn position. Over nine years we progressed from a non-contesting band through to the second section. I enjoyed some great times with Audley but last year I decided it was time to move on and I joined Wire Brass in November 2004. After nearly two years of playing horn in Wire, I was offered the chance to take on a new challenge and make the move to baritone. Sorry to abandon you horn section, but Andy and Paul assure me that I am finally playing a proper instrument!!

In my other life I qualified with a 1st class honours degree in primary teaching in 2003 and I’m currently teaching 5 & 6 year olds in Crewe.

Solo Euphonium – Kim Holly-Thorpe

Kim-Holly originally hails from Lostock Hall, Preston, and started playing tenor horn at the age of 7 before changing onto the euphonium at the age of 12.

Kim-Holly has played for a number of bands in the north west and has guested with many of Britain’s top bands including Leyland, Fodens, and Grimethorpe to name but a few. Kim-Holly started playing with wthe Lostock Hall memorial Band under the tuition of Ron Heyes. She progressed through the Lancashire County Youth Band system and has a great many thanks to Peter Read and Josette Coupe for their guidance and opportunties and being given the chance to go on tour for many years to different countries in Europe.At fifteen she moved to Blackburn and Darwen band on second euphonium before taking up the solo euphonium position. Wire Brass had been formed a year and were in the third section when Kim first joined on solo euphonium. She played in many competitions with them; one being at the National Finals held in Torquay gaining secong prize. She later moved to Besses O’ th Barn Band on solo euphonium before undertaking her four year degree at the Royal Northern College of Music under the fantastic and second to none tuition of Steven Mead.

Whilst studying for her music degree Kim joined The Fairey band on second euphonium having the opportunity to learn off some fantastic players and playing acid brass music at some fantastic events also playing at the British Open and National Finals at the Royal Albert Hall. In July 2008 Kim-Holly came back to her adopted family at Wire Brass after being offered a place on a Secondary Music PGCE Course at Liverpool Hope University.

Wire have progressed rapidly from the thrid section to the championship section nationally and Kim-Holly firmly believes that she is a member of one of the countries most progressive and innovative bands and is striving forward along with Paul Andrews for continued enjoyment and success.

Kim-Holly loves playing alongside Andy Dale as they are a great team!! She would like to thank both Paul and Andy for all the encouragement, support and opportunities she has recieved and has greatly appreciated all their hard work they do for the band.

Kim-Holly’s favourite pieces: Pagannini Variations Philip Wilby, Vienna Nights Philip Wilby, Myfanwy, Grace by Leigh Baker, Song By Frode Rydland, Linkola Concerto, Cafe 1930 and Tango by Astor Piazolla,

Other interests: SHOPPING being proud of watching her dad race his motorbikes and going out for cocktails and dancing with friends!

2nd Euphonium – Andrew Dale

Age 7-18 (cornet) Warrington Youth Band

Toured Germany 3 times, Holland twice, Canada and Austria twice competing in the World youth contest in Vienna, finally winning the competition in 1980. Cut 3 records, recorded quite a few radio shows and God knows how but we won Opportunity Knocks (with Hughie Green, anyone under 40 won’t have a clue what I’m going on about) achieving 95 on the clapometer, it was all high tech in the old days, the one armed juggler came second.

Age 18-22 (cornet) Roberts Bakery

Can’t remember if we were Championship or first section, can’t remember winning anything though. Not quite as much travelling as the Youth Band but it was ok if you wanted to play Winsford Civic Hall or Northwich Memorial Hall, which we frequently did !!!

Beer/kids – sold cornet – bummed around in a few local bands as an excuse to get out for beer.

1993-1995 Berisfords (Congleton) (Bb Bass)

Don’t know how I ended up on Bass. I think this band has now folded.

1995-2001 Point of Ayr (Bb Bass/Baritone)

Had a great time at Point, loved every minute, loved the people, great atmosphere. Played with some brilliant musicians under brilliant conductors. Competed in most of the major competitions winning the Welsh area a couple of times, recorded a CD. I think the highest placing we managed at the National finals was 7th playing Peter Grahams Alderley Edge, I won’t mention the other results but I don’t think they were in the top 10.

2001 – 2003 – Wire Brass (Bariphonium)

I’ve always hated the euphonium so it came as no surprise that I was asked to fill in for a couple of months!!! 2 years later I am still on Euph with no prospect of heading back up the line to Baritone (Euph players think they’re the cream; it’s a common misconception, Euph players are failed Baritone players) so I am carrying on for a while perfecting my Bariphonium sound and hoping to God that Carnival Romaine will be handed in and lost in the library.

Worst moment

I can still hear my split note (everybody in Symphony Hall heard it) at the 1999 European Championships in the 2nd movement of Montage, I bet it’s still ringing around the rafters.

Favourite pieces

Pagannini Variations (Wilby) Tallis Variations (Sparke) Sounds (Golland)

Most disliked piece

2nd movement of Montage (Graham)

Other Interests

Long-suffering wife Jo, kids Oliver and Jessica, Fishing and Beer. Not necessarily in that order.

Solo Trombone – Vacancy

2nd Trombone – Jill Groom

I am 14 years old and am currently studying for my GCSE’s at St Peter and Paul Catholic College.

I first started playing the trombone at the age of 9. My first teacher was Tony Whittingham until I moved on to high school and I was taught by Chris Barnes. I started to play in the school orchestra and Halton Schools Concert Band and later on Warrington Schools concert band as well.

I passed an audition for the Junior Royal Northern College and started in September 2006; I have lessons for trombone, piano and composition and I also play in various ensembles there. My trombone teacher is Roz Davies and I recently passed grade 7 with distinction and I will be taking grade 7 piano soon.

Earlier this year, I won Warrington musician of the year and entered for the brass open at the Liverpool festival. I got through to ‘instrumentalist of the year’ and was one of the six finalists for this. In the future I hope to study music at college and then hopefully go on to university J

Bass Trombone – Vacancy

Eb Bass – Richard Behrend

I joined Wire Brass in August of this year. However I was no stranger to most of the players as, 18 months previously, I took part in the band trip to Malta, when one of the reugular players was unable to travel. I was also no stranger to the conductor as for the past 22 years I have run a music shop in Liverpool, and Maestro Paul has been my non-resident brass repairer.

I came to the brass band world and the Eb Bass relatively late in life. Before this most my playing had been on trombone in amateur orchestras. On the point of ‘later in life’ I could possibly claim, having just past his 50th birthday, to be the oldest player in the band. However I don’t think I could claim to be the most mature!

I live with my Portuguese partner, who plays the viola (well someone has to) and my 13 month old son, who plays the skinless tambourine and a maraca (if that is the single for a pair of maracas)

My main non-musical hobby is cross country mountain biking, although finding time for this in the last year has not been easy. Let’s blame it on the band!

Eb Bass – Peter Bloomfield

I started playing a brass instrument at the age of 6 with the local Warrington Youth Band under the guidance of Paul’s father, Len Andrews. I spent 12 happy years there playing many varied concerts and touring extensively through Europe, mainly Holland, Germany and Austria where the band gained top honours in the World Youth Championship in Vienna in 1980.

In 1989 I decided to move on from the Youth band and joined The Rochdale Wilson band where I played for the next 2 years under the musical directorship of Mr. Roy Roe. During this period I renewed my friendship with Paul Andrews who, along with Paul Taylor, was playing at The Leyland Vehicles Band under the charismatic leader Richard Evans. The highlight of my playing career at that point was to tour Germany in 1990 with Leyland, an experience I will always remember.

Having played in a brass band for 14 consecutive years I decided to hang up my horn and return to my second great love, Rugby League. 12 years of amateur rugby then ensued playing for the local Rylands ARLFC along with my brother, Martin. Blood, sweat and tears a-plenty but I loved every minute of it.

Having no intention to return to brass banding (and I know some would think this to be a wise decision) a phone call came out of the blue in September 2001 from a certain Andrew Dale, telling me about a new band that he and Paul Andrews had formed called Wire Brass and would I be interested in giving it a go? With a certain amount of trepidation I said yes; 4 years later the trepidation remains but I’m loving every minute of it.

Bb Bass – Owen Garbutt

Bb Bass – Andy Mooney

Percussion – Stuart Mann

Done so much, would not have enough space. However, in brief:

At the age of 6, played for the local Salvation Army and then went on to join the School Orchestra at Irlam High School at the age of 11 then decided to try brass bands.

Started off at Cadishead Public band at the tender age of 11 under the direction of Roy Hesford (who is still the conductor today). Whilst in Cadishead Band I was asked to join Dave Woods Variety Brass where I gained a lot of experience in the field of swing and dance band styles.

At the age of 17, went on to join Urmston and Davyhulme Silver Band where I met my wife to be Karen Walker (now Mann of course).

Worked through the sections to eventually becoming Championship status nationally. This was not enough …….

Besides Brass Bands I needed to unleash the “animal” in me and started working through various artist agencies on the pub and club circuit. After being noticed I was asked to work in theatres, studio session work and various other aspects of the music industry. Artists I have accompanied include, Les Dawson, Howard Keel (from Dallas of course), Cannon and Ball, Bruce Forsyth, Jimmy Tarbuck, Joe Longthorne to name but a few … not that I like to name drop of course.

I currently hold the position of Kit drummer for Brass in Blue, which is a 10 piece brass ensemble which is run by the Lancashire Constabulary Police Force in Preston under the direction of Paul Andrews. This position I have held for a number of years and hope to continue for a further number of years until all the noise I make turns everybody deaf.

You can still find me at Cadishead Band though for the annual Christmas, Spring and Autumn concerts work permitting. It is difficult to let go of those ties, yet it is good to never forget your roots!

After a large number of years out of the brass band world, I joined Lostock Hall band in Preston. I was then asked to help Haslingdon and Helmshore band at the National Finals in Harrogate where I again spent a number of years back in the brass band and contesting circuit. The position at Wire Brass came up and the rest you know……

Favourite pieces

Music by John Miles – sorry it’s the animal in me!!

Most disliked pieces

Force of Destiny.

Other Interests

Beer, women and noisy music.

Worst Moments

Dropping my sticks at the 2002 National Finals – to all Wire Brass members, I put my apologies in writing now ……. this matter is now closed and not open for discussion anymore!

Percussion – Nikki Andrews

As I could never escape music in my mum and dads house I started to play on their piano at age 6. I started having piano lessons shortly after and continued with them right through primary school. In year 5 (age 9) of primary school I took up clarinet (because it was an instrument my dad couldn’t play!) and within a year I had passed my grade 1.

When I went to high school (age 11) I left the clarinet behind, and whilst continuing with piano, I chose to take up Bb cornet. With this I joined Warrington Brass, age 12, when my granddad, Len Andrews, was still conducting. I soon moved to tenor horn with Warrington Brass and enjoyed 2 years (and 3 marching seasons!) of fun with friends and family that were in the band.

Half way through high school (age 13), having reached grade 4 on piano and studying for grade 5 theory, my piano teacher left and my piano playing stopped. This was unfortunate, so a drunk Christmas with, I believe, Stuart and Karen Mann, my parents thought it would be a great idea for me to learn tuned percussion and play with Wire Brass!!! As funny as it was at age 14, I thought it would be great! I had watched Stu play with ‘Brass in Blue’ since I was 7 years old and me and my brother use to have great fun mimicking him in the audience, so much so Tom took up drums in high school and I joined Wire Brass!!

Now, nearly 6 years down the line (age 20), I am in my final year at university, still having a great time on percussion with Stu (who never ceases to amaze me!) and Rihanne (who is just fabulous!), living with James and hoping Wire are going to take us to some lovely country very soon where the only percussion we have to take is a tambourine (I wish!).

Other Interests:

I am a wildlife geek at heart and love being outside, getting stuck in mud flats in South Wales, counting birds, identifying trees (not one of my best features it has to be said!) and just the simple things like gardening (maintaining mum and dads vegetable plot and the pond) as well as walking mum and dads 3 crazy dogs (Saffy, Molly and Belle).

Me and James watch a lot of films, and TV series and absolutely love going to the cinema. Plus James is a great cook so we enjoy a lot of nice food but love going out for meals as well, trying new restaurants as well as keeping with our usual places (like the Lal Quila in Rush Holme for a fantastic curry!)

Percussion – Rhianne Abberley

Heeeeeeeeeey! Fun, lively, energetic and just a lil bit crazy! That’s me!

Music is my life. I Love it and always will! Ever since I was 6 when I was given a stick and discovered how much fun it was to hit things I’ve been bitten by the bug. Starting on tuned percussion such as marimba, vibraphone, glock etc I branched out to play kit and anything else I could find that made a noise! (those many hours practicing on the pots and pans in the kitchen!)

Despite percussion being my first love I’ve always enjoyed playing other instruments and I play the flute, piccolo, the guitar, mandolin and more recently I’ve begun to play sax and would love to continue with this, perhaps moving onto bari sax one day.

My future ambitions are to obtain a career as a grade examiner alongside my performing elements (maybe with a little bit of adjudicating on the side??)

Outside of my education, I enjoy composing and arranging my own music for orchestra and band and I love to perform anywhere and everywhere, concerts, weddings, and private functions. Generally anywhere there’s fun to be had, I’ll be there living life to the full and enjoying every minute of it.

I’ve played in many different types of ensembles ranging from symphony orchestras to brass bands and I regularly perform as a soloist with different groups. I enjoy playing in jazz n blues groups and rock/pop bands and hope to one day form my own folk group. I’ve also been lucky enough to perform with the BBC Philharmonic a number of times and I find that every ensemble I play with is very much a family to me.

Currently I play with the CYO and Bactiguard Wire Brass, and try to fill up my spare time with as many other jobs I can fit in! I used to play with Winterley Methodist Brass Band, and many others, all of which have helped me tremendously in getting where I am today in Wire Brass with my friends and boyfriend. There are many people who’ve helped me and been there for me, too many to mention but you all know who you are, and I’d like to say a big thank you to you all for all the support and for every opportunity you’ve given me.

Band Manager – George Laycock

I have now retired after nearly 41 years working for Royal Mail and I am enjoying having the time to do what I want to do. I have been married for 36 years to my long suffering wife Sylvia and we have three grown up children, two boys and a girl, all of whom are into music making.

I have been around Brass Bands all my life with my two elder brothers playing cornet/trumpet and horn/trumpet from the late forties to the early seventies with the Crewe Co-op or the Stockport Co-op (now Vernon Building Society Poynton) bands, as well as numerous dance bands. Even tried making music myself a couple of times on trombone but having got to the end of the first ‘Tune a Day’ book I then lost interest and concentrated on what I did best, that being talking and writing (promotion and administration) on behalf of brass bands.

Apart from my early interest up to the age of 15 I wasn’t involved in music (apart from being a lover of Hi-Fi), until in 1984 when my youngest son aged 11 at the time came home from his first week at secondary school blowing a cornet all the way up the street. I banished him to his bedroom and was astonished to hear him play the scale from bottom to top and back again. At that point my elder brother, who was visiting at the time, said he showed some talent and should be nurtured, and so it began. From there I became, as many parents are, the chief taxi driver for him, then our daughter and their like minded friends eventually becoming assistant secretary and then secretary to several bands, in the process helping them to become very successful organisations and our children competent musicians.

This involvement with our children and brass / blues &soul bands has given Sylvia and I a great life and many happy hours of enjoyment, also met some great people and made many lasting friendships, long may it continue.