A man who is no stranger to the world of brass bands has been appointed the first musical |director of Helston Town Band’s new Concert Band.

Ian Edwards has taken the helm of the new band which gives local players the chance to|perform but without the full-time commitment required with the town band – an initiative which is already proving popular.

The town band’s musical |director, Derek Johnston, said: “Since taking over the senior band it just made sense to bring all of the small groups together, and it seems to be working as the band already have some 24 |members but is still looking for more.”

Ian, whose interest in music dates back to his primary school days when he learned to play the recorder and joined the local band at St Keverne, hopes to attract those new members.

He has conducted and been a musical director and associate of varying musical genres in this country and abroad, from brass bands, accordion bands, gospel choirs, country pop groups and male voice choirs.

His main objective is to create good sounds and present |entertaining concerts with broad traditional and modern music for singers, players and audiences alike.

As well as his new role with the Concert Band, Ian is also|currently musical director of his own award winning brass group Illumination Brass.

He has previously been MD of Helston Accordion Band, Constantine Silver Band and St Keverne Male Voice Choir, |winning first prizes with all at |various contests and festivals.

Ian is delighted to be appointed MD of the Helston Town Concert Band and to link up with the Town Band’s MD, Derek Johnston again.

They played together for around ten years under the direction of Derek's father and were part of the meteoric rise of St Keverne Band to championship section winners through the 70s and 80s.

Anyone interested in joining the Concert Band, which rehearses on Thursday evenings, should call Ian on 01326 280118.