Cornet boost for Cory

Cory Band is delighted to announce the signing of South Wales-born Dai Hale, who joins as assistant principal cornet, working closely with principal cornet Tom Hutchinson.

The move is somewhat of a reuniting for the pair, who were previously together at Rothwell Temperance Band where Dai was principal cornet from 1997. An extremely young Tom joined the band a few years later and they were desk partners, before Dai returned to Wales to begin a family.

Dai Hale began his playing career with Tredegar Band as a youngster, progressing to principal cornet and trumpet in the Greater Gwent Youth organisations. He was also a member of the National Youth Brass Band of Wales and studied music at Huddersfield University where he played with Sellers Band in 1993, winning the Harry Mortimer scholarship, before joining Black Dyke in 1994, completing a memorable ‘Grand Slam’ of titles in 1995. In 2009 Dai joined the Flowers Band and for six years contributed greatly to the band’s success.

Of his arrival at Cory, Dai told BBW: "I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining Cory Band, a band with so much history, tradition and above all a performance level of the very highest quality. It's hard work, but I'm enjoying all the extra practice and commitment required to play at this level.

“I had no hesitation in accepting Philip’s invitation to join the band, but I’d also like to thank my wife and daughter for supporting me and allowing me to pursue my banding goals. It's also great to be performing with a band from my home nation, Wales, and I look forward hopefully to winning another Grand Slam!”

Cory MD Philip Harper commented: “Dai was a vital part of us winning the Europeans in Lille and I’ve been so impressed with everything which he brings to the table: brilliant playing, a first-class attitude and commitment; and a fabulously encouraging and nurturing approach to our younger players. We’ve all enjoyed welcoming him on board.”

Philip added: “I’d also like to pay tribute to Adrian Williams who was, until recently, bumping Tom. Adrian is not leaving the band, although he is stepping back as a full-time player. Just as much at home on soprano as he is on solo cornet, Adrian is a real asset to Cory Band.”

Cory’s final engagement before a well-earned summer break will be at the Welsh Proms this Friday (22^nd July) in St. David’s Hall, Cardiff under the baton of Owain Arwel-Hughes OBE.

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