Musical Director

Garry began playing cornet aged 9 and joined his first band, South Leeds Music Centre Junior Orchestra aged 10. From there he progressed to the Concert band, and eventually on to Principal Trumpet a few years later. Garry joined his first brass band aged 12, the Rothwell Temperance 'B' band as it was then. He played there until going to College to study for his music BTEC, when he moved to Wakefield Metropolitan Schools band to help his Brass Tutor Les Hepplestone. Garry took up percussion during high school "because it was a trendier thing to do". In 1995 Garry had his arm twisted (not very hard) to move to Gawthorpe Brass '85 on Drum Kit, Staying at Gawthorpe for 8 years during the bands rise from 4th to 2nd section. His Wind band playing began at college when he joined Wakefield Orchestral Wind Ensemble, conducted by Stephen Bennett. Stephen gave Garry his first taste of conducting when he used to take on a piece a week at rehearsals. He has also played Trumpet and conducted The band of the West Yorkshire Fire Service. Garry has been conducting since 1994 and is well known for his clear and decisive baton work and his excellent communication skills when shaping a musical idea.

Besides being our MD, Garry is also Musician in Residence at Harrogate High School assisting in the day to day running of the Music department, percussionist with the world famous Brighouse and Rastrick band and Musical director of Emley Brass Band.