THE baton has been handed over to a new musical director of Swinton and District Excelsior Band.

Peter Woodrow has taken over from Stephen Popham, secretary of the band. A music graduate, lifelong brass bander and the head of music at Malton School, Peter is a previous winner of the North Yorkshire NQT of the Year Award.

Peter has also played with Rothwell, Hepworth and Yorkshire Imperial Brass Bands throughout his musical career, as well as holding the position of principal cornet at then-Championship section Meltham Mills Brass Band. He played flugelhorn for the award-winning Huddersfield University Brass Band under the direction of Phillip McCann, widely regarded as one of the best cornet players of all time.

A multi-instrumentalist, Peter can play the piano, guitar and many brass instruments to a high level. In his appointment as Musical Director of the Swinton and District Excelsior Band, he hopes to bring his trademark enthusiasm, skill and drive to an already successful and thriving band.

Stephen said: “We are delighted to welcome Peter to the band and look forward to working with him to further develop our skills and performances.

“The band would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Milton Rooms in Malton who have enabled the band to resume rehearsals in a Covid - secure environment, socially-distanced. This would not be possible in our own bandroom due to the space available.

“We have also commenced with our training band thanks to Amotherby Village Hall. It’s great that local organisations are able support each other in these difficult times and we feel lucky to have such great facilities in our towns and villages.”

The band always welcomes new players, experienced, returners or beginners. Phone Stephen Popham on 01653 696417 or go to swinton-band.com