1st Old Boys welcomes Corry
1st Old Boys Association Silver Band are delighted to welcome Dr. Jonathan Corry as their new musical advisor. Dr. Jonathan Corry will conduct the band for the upcoming 104th Championship of Ireland band contest held on 22nd October in the Market Place Theatre, Armagh.This event, organised by the North of Ireland Bands Association (NIBA) annually, sees bands compete for the opportunity to be crowned national champions but also to qualify for a place at the European Brass Band Festival.
Jonathan is no stranger to the 1st Old Boys, conducting them numerous times over the past 20 years in between spells studying at the RNCM, living in London and Chicago. He is well known within the band world having conducted across the UK, Europe and the US. He spent an 8-year period as conductor of the Enfield Citadel SA Band before moving for several years to work for The Salvation Army in Chicago. As an educator Jonathan has worked in state and private sectors from primary to higher education, led brass band seminars, conducted youth groups such as the National Youth Orchestra of Ireland, European Youth Brass Band, various SA music schools and has initiated projects in areas of severe deprivation and within correctional facilities. Dr. Corry, commented on his appointment stating, “I am looking forward to building upon the good work done so far under the band’s Resident Musical Director Mr. Stephen Cairns. I look forward to collaborating with the fantastic musicians of the band and am excited for the musical journey”.
As well as the appointment of Dr. Corry as their musical advisor, 1st Old Boys has also welcomed two new members to the band: Brian Downey has signed for the band on Solo Baritone. Brian is a former member of The Laganvale (Metal Technology) Band, having been Principal Cornet for a time, and also a former member of Whitburn Band. Brian is widely regarded as one of the finest players on the Northern Irish banding scene and the Old Boys are absolutely delighted to have him. Harry Lloyd has also joined the band on 2nd Cornet. Harry has been in bands for over thirty years, having been a former member and Principal Cornet of the Agnes Street band, Downshire Brass and many others. Harry is renowned as a fantastic bandsman.
Band Chairman Nigel Hylands stated that, "In what is an exciting time for the 1st Old Boys Association, Jonny's appointment as musical advisor and having him conduct the band for the upcoming contest is something we as a band are looking forward to. We have had a very successful summer period with numerous engagements and the signing of two excellent players. I, and the committee, are eager to begin work with all members and with Jonny in the coming weeks."
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