New signings at Lochgelly

Lochgelly Band, with Musical Director Paul McKelvie OBE.

THE Lochgelly Band has announced two signings ahead of a busy schedule of enagagements in 2016.

George Cameron, formerly of Clackmannan District, has joined as solo euphonium player while Gordon Jenkins takes the soprano cornet seat as the Fife band continues to build ahead of the Scottish Championships.

John Martin, chairman of Lochgelly Band, commented: "It’s great to have George back in the band leading the lower end.

"His technique, tone and overall quality really stand out and he is just what we were looking for. It's nice to have that quality euph sound back in the band."

Gordon, meanwhile, has enjoyed a musical career at a high level and works as a brass teacher after performing as a cornet and trumpet player in HM Royal Marines. Former bands include Whitburn, Co-operative Funeralcare and Kirkintilloch, with prizes including the award for best soloist at the British Open.

Stewart Hepburn, band manager, said: "I’ve listened to numerous talented performances by Gordon over the years, especially in his days playing for Whitburn and the Co, and more recently with Newtongrange. I’d heard he was available after a short spell with Kirky and the opportunity was too good to miss.

"He helped us at a concert recently and was outstanding. Fortunately for us, Gordon enjoyed himself too and agreed to sign."

Stewart continued: "Both Gordon and George are not only very accomplished players who will add greatly to the band's contesting performances, but I think they will help develop some of the players around them too. You can already see the lift it's given the band and the pair have slotted in well. Lochgelly is a fun place to be."

The band enjoyed a busy end to 2015 under its Musical Director, Paul McKelvie, and is looking to complete its line-up with spaces for a tenor horn and tenor trombone player. Positions are negotiable.

Anyone interested should email secretary@lochgellyband.com or call 07736074113. All applications will be treated with the strictest of confidence.