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Bradford Concert Band (BCB), formed in 1975, is delighted to announce the appointment of Matthew McKirgan as our new Musical Director, and are thrilled to welcome him to the band.

Matthew trained as a percussionist, specialising in tuned percussion, and has performed a broad range of musical repertoire - from classical to contemporary, musical theatre, film scores and popular music - with many of the region’s most prestigious bands and orchestras.

Matthew enjoys a wide variety of musical styles and is constantly looking for new music and arrangements. He is an experienced conductor and music coach, having directed a wide range of community groups, concert bands, musical theatre productions, choirs and small ensembles. 

As a conductor he has been fortunate to have been coached by some of the best in the business including Dr Laszlo Marosi - Conducting Professor, University of Central Florida, the late, great Guy Woolfenden - composer, conductor and former Head of Music for The Royal Shakespeare Company, and Duncan Stubbs - former Principal Director of Music for the Royal Air Force.

Matthew said “I am thrilled to be joining BCB as Musical Director and look forward to working with such a talented and friendly group of players.  It is a real privilege to be leading the band into one of the most exciting periods in its history, with the 50th anniversary approaching, coinciding with Bradford being the UK City of Culture 2025.  In addition to the band's normal busy calendar of performances, we have a fantastic opportunity to work on a diverse and challenging repertoire whilst  continuing to realise BCB's charitable purpose - to advance the public’s appreciation and enjoyment of music."

BCB are looking forward to continuing our musical development, combining Matthew’s experience and leadership with the band’s talent and enthusiasm.  We trust that this combination will flourish and will develop our skills and levels of performance.

The charitable purpose of BCB is to to advance, improve, develop and maintain public education in, and the appreciation and enjoyment of, the art and science of music. This includes providing an environment for musicians such that their creative talents can be enhanced, fulfilling their own desires and sharing enjoyment of music with the community.

BCB is so looking forward to the next chapter in our history under Matthew’s guidance.  We are enthused and energised to expand and develop further, and, in 2025, to celebrate our 50th Anniversary alongside participating in Bradford being the UK City of Culture 2025.  

BCB are always keen to hear from potential new members.  If you play a woodwind, brass or percussion instrument and would like to be involved in BCB, please email info@b-c-b.org.uk or, for more information about the band, visit us at b-c-b.org.uk.  Rehearsals currently take place at Baildon Hall every Thursday 7.30pm - 9.30pm and Sunday 10.00am - 12 noon.

The band performs at a huge variety of venues each year and we are always looking for new opportunities to develop our musical links.

Bradford Concert Band

Charity No 1180099

25 September 2023