GUS Welcomes Ailsa Russell
GUS has announced the appointment of Ailsa Russell as Solo Horn. A player who needs no introduction, following a decade as Solo Horn with Cory Band, Ailsa spent a total of 16 years with the band. During this remarkable run, Ailsa achieved four British Open wins, three National Championship wins, four European Championship wins and a staggering eight Brass in Concert wins, as well as featuring as a soloist in concerts and on many CD recordings.
As well as her phenomenal success with Cory Band, Ailsa is a member of the horn section of Brass Band of Battle Creek (USA), horn tutor with both the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain Children’s Band & National Youth Brass Band of Scotland and will adjudicate at the forthcoming 2026 National Youth Championships alongside the band’s Musical Director, Christopher Bond.
Commenting on the appointment Christopher said, “We are delighted to welcome a player of Ailsa’s calibre and experience to the band, and she’s already made a brilliant impression. With our superb Solo Horn of three years, Rob Fleming, now taking the 1st Horn position, this is a clear demonstration of our intent to strengthen the band as we move forwards into 2026.”
Looking ahead to the new role Ailsa commented, “Joining the GUS Band marks the start of a new chapter for me, and I’m very much looking forward to being a part of the team at an exciting time for the band. I’ve already been made to feel so welcome and am looking forward to the journey ahead.”
Ailsa’s first appearance with the band will be on 21st February at Rothwell Church in Northamptonshire, where she’ll perform the finale from Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto.
