David Holdsworth

At the beginning of 2024 West Yorkshire Brass could boast it had three of its founding members still within the band. Then Solo Euphonium Keith Shuttleworth retired for health reasons in January.

Now it is with much regret we have to announce the retirement of Eb Bass player Malcolm Wood. Whilst his retirement is also due to health reasons there can’t be many bands which can boast having a bass player in their 89th year.

That leaves Musical Director Peter Hellawell ‘Last Man Standing’.

Malcolm was presented with a commemorative gift on behalf of the entire band at rehearsal on 17th September 2024.

At the presentation ~ Left to right: Malcolm Wood, Peter Hellawell, Keith Shuttleworth.

Malcolm started playing in 1950 with Scapegoat Hill Band, on the Flugel Horn, but he didn’t like it, so he took the only instrument left which was the G Trombone ~ and he never regretted it.

Leaving Scapegoat, he played with Stalham British Legion Band whilst in the RAF. On leaving the RAF, Malcolm went to Meltham, a band which won quite a few contests during his time there.

He then joined West Yorkshire Fire Service Band and in 1986 became a founder Member of West Yorkshire Brass. Because the band was short of an Eb Bass, Malcolm came to the rescue.

Malcolm ~ WY Brass thanks you for your loyal service.
May you have a long and happy retirement.

On Saturday 29th June 2024, West Yorkshire Brass returned to its former home, St. Andrew’s, Oakenshaw, for a concert performance rated by audience members as ‘second to none’. Though not particularly well attended by the public, it was made very clear that the concert was very much appreciated. It was noted by those band members who recall the days of playing and rehearsing at this venue, that the church now has a new heating system along with a new vicar. We do hope the church has a bright future.

As a result of the departure of Mary Binns from the band (1st. Horn seat), we also lose our Librarian, Michael, her husband. However, we wish them both well for the future.