James Blackford joins Leyland

Australian James Blackford will join Leyland Band in the solo euphonium chair, taking over from Steve Walsh. James graduated with a Bachelor degree in Advanced Performance and moved to Sydney to become the youngest ever full-time member of the prestigious NSW Police Band. He moved to the UK to study at the RNCM in Manchester with the support of the John Fewkes Scholarship, a Marah Mahlowe Brass Award and assistance by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts.
 
James a two-time Australian National Euphonium Champion, has been playing solo baritone with the North West band. The Leyland Band commented on the appointment, "We're delighted to have appointed James. We knew what a talent we had on our hands in our preparations for London, and his captivating solo performances in our Christmas concerts have shown this.
 
“We would also like to place on record our thanks to Steve Walsh who has held the solo euphonium position over the last year. Steve delivered many performances of world-class quality, and we wish him all the best for the future."

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