Conductors

At Keele University Brass Band, we have established a a conductor mentor scheme which ensures everyone gets the most out of the conducting position. The position of Musical Director is a formally appointed position, it is the responsibility of the person in the post to support the committee on the musical direction of the band, decide on concert programmes and rehearsal schedules and bring knowledge and expertise to the band.

The MD is also the principle conductor, as the band aims to encourage young conductors to take the baton. As part of the MD's role is to guide and mentor these budding conductors throughout the year, with the aim to foster a new generation of brass band leaders. This means the band has formed a conducting team, allowing new conductors to gain experience and the MD to pass on their trade; with band players benefiting from this learning process as well.

Alistair Gibson:

Alistair is our Musical Director and principal conductor and has mastered the balance between building a rapport with the players whilst still working them to the best of their ability. He studied trombone at the Royal Northern College of Music and has played with the championship section Roberts Bakery Band.

Alistair has conducted a number of brass bands, as well as youth and amateur orchestras, from which his has gained experience and developed his technique. He joined Keele University Brass Band in January 2016 to take the band to the national UniBrass competition. The band and Alistair got along so well they both agreed that they would love him to stay, and he has confirmed he wishes to remain in the role for the next academic year.

Amy Stringer:

Amy is our deputy conductor, working under Alistair and stepping in to take rehearsals and concerts in the case of Alistair's unavailability. Amy studied Music at Keele University with flute as her main instrument, and graduated in 2015. In her final year she took on the role of Chair of Keele University Symphonia Orchestra, and has since become their Musical Director; Amy has also taken on the role of Musical Director of Keele University Flute Choir.

Prior to joining the band, Amy had never played a brass instrument, however, has since played in a number of positions in the band, starting on cornet and most recently playing Bb bass. Over her time with the band she expressed an intrest in learning to conduct the band, and with the band establishing it's conductor mentor shceme, she was able to do so.

Past conductors:

2015 - David Godfrey

2014 - 15 - Beth Ridout

2014 - 15 - Nigel Butler

2013 - 14 - James Butterworth-Smith

2011 - 12 - Jordan Meakin

2010 - 13 - John 'Elmo' Watson