New conductor at Tullis

THE Tullis Russell Mills Band has announced the appointment of Paul Kiernan as its new Musical Director.

News of the appointment comes as the band starts its preparation for the National Brass Band Championships of Great Britain and a return to the championship section after a gap of 39 years.

Commenting on his appointment, Paul said: “I am very excited to be joining such a forward thinking and obviously very talented band. We have some fabulous contests and projects to look forward to in the second half of the year including a visit to Cheltenham for the National Finals.

"I am also happy to be teaming up with Stevie Craig, the band's manager, who was the CWS Glasgow band manager when I signed for them in 1993 – how time flies."

The appointment, which officially begins on April 25, is the latest boost for the Fife band after a period of struggle. In April 2015, Tullis Russell lost its sponsor of 96 years when the Tullis Russell Paper Mill closed and there were fears that the band might not continue, but a hard-working management team has turned what was a big negative into a positive.

A spokesman for Tullis Russell Mills Band said: "The last six months have been a roller coaster for the band with ups and downs but the ups have certainly outweighed the downs. We recently received a £20,000 grant due to the closure of the mill, became Scottish Champions in March and received confirmation of our charity status in April.

"This is a fantastic appointment for the band and all at Tullis look forward to working with the new conducting team of Paul and current resident bandmaster, Ross Brotherston."

The band has a very busy summer season ahead which starts later in April with a joint concert with the St Andrews Brass Ensemble. Details can be found on the band's Facebook page. The band will also be playing for the Airborne Services Association of Scotland with a service in Dunfermline Abbey followed by a concert in the Glen Pavilion.