New musical director for Milnrow Band

Photo: www.goldy.uk

Lee Skipsey

Lee Skipsey has been named as the new musical director of Milnrow Band.

The band has been working with Lee and a number of other conductors during its search for a new musical director, following the departure of John Doyle.

It became obvious quite quickly that there was ‘great potential’ for a strong relationship between Lee and the band; however, at the time personal circumstances could not facilitate that.

Towards the end of the summer Lee’s circumstances changed and the band wasted no time in inviting him to become the next musical director of Milnrow Band.

Previously, Lee became musical director for the City of Bradford Band (CoBB) in 2010 following eight years of highly successful performances as a percussionist (with six years as principal percussionist) with the world-famous Black Dyke Band.

When Lee commenced with CoBB there was an ensemble of only 12 musicians. Over the course of 10 years, the organisation grew into a family of bands and 90 musicians.

In that time the senior band was promoted multiple times from third section to championship and the feeder band (BD1) from fourth to second section.

Of his appointment, Lee said: “The time is now to take on a band that wants to be on the biggest stages at the biggest contests and I feel that Milnrow Band could be the one.”

Milnrow Band takes to the stage for the first time with Lee officially in post as musical director this Sunday (11 September), competing at the Dr Martin Wainstone Cup in Yarm.

The band’s management team would like to thank all musical director auditionees and also conductors such as Gareth Brindle for their efforts and flexibility in ensuring the smooth rehearsal of the band and the ability to fulfil engagements during this process.

The band is currently inviting applications for the vacancy of principal cornet, apply in confidence using info@milnrowband.co.uk or call Natalie Beer on 07795 148620.