Uppermill Band make the grade in national finals, and announce new Musical Director

Uppermill Band was proud to represent the North-West in the National Brass Band Finals 2nd Section.

Despite this being the band's first year in this section, they competed with 17 bands from across Great Britain, and their performance of "Lions of Legends" saw them awarded fifth place in Cheltenham.

It was described by the adjudicators as: "A good performance demonstrating good band sound and balance, with good dynamic contrasts and well shaped phrases.

"The MD brought the score to life."

Band Chairman John Ward said: "I couldn’t be more proud of the band, they’ve worked so hard preparing for the contest in difficult circumstances following a 15 month enforced break.

"Their excellent performance was a great achievement and a credit to both the band and our temporary MD Mark Peacock."

Uppermill Band would like to thank the members of the Saddleworth community who have helped them to reach the National Finals, in particular the Uppermill Methodist Church and the Saddleworth Cricket, Bowling and Tennis Club where rehearsals have been held during the past few months.

Thank you for all messages of support, especially those sent from local Saddleworth Bands.

Meanwhile, Uppermill Band has just announced the appointment of a new Musical Director, Jamie Cooper (pictured above).

Jamie is a talented cornet player having played at the highest level with Championship Section bands Grimethorpe and Brighouse and Rastrick.

He brings a wealth of experience of playing under a range of conductors, including Professor David King.

As a Specialist Leader in Education for Music working at a high school in Yorkshire, he has a proven record of developing musical ensembles, conducting and performing at prestigious venues.

Jamie has already been working with Uppermill Band in recent weeks and the band are looking forward to the next stage in their musical journey. 

Jamie said: “I feel extremely proud to have been offered the opportunity to work with Uppermill Band.

"I have been very impressed with the sense of togetherness within the band, and I know that we have a shared vision for bringing great musicality and excellence in performing to our local community and beyond.

"They are a band who have enjoyed many successes in recent times, and I hope that we can achieve even more, together, in the future.”

Uppermill Band are finalising plans for a concert in the village this Autumn - more details will be published shortly. 

If you would like to join Uppermill Band, particularly if you are a cornet player, then please get in touch with Band Secretary Katie Woodward on 07949 559200.

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