- Richard Powne 25th May 1956 - 1st December 2024
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Date Posted: Sun, 22 Dec 2024
It is with great sadness that the band announces the death of our dear friend, trombonist and former Chairman, Richard Powne.
During his 16 years with the band, Richard led the trombone section with an indefatigable sense of humour (a very “Richard” word!) and an infectious sense of fun. Being a man of contradictions, his leadership style at the back of the band room was a unique combination of military precision and unbridled carnage, which endeared him to his section and the whole band (most of the time!).
In addition to his on-stage exploits, Richard worked tirelessly behind the scenes as a trustee, holding various positions including a transformative 10 year stint as Chairman. It would be hard to overstate the contribution he made to the band, not least by taking the lead on our application for charitable status, which was granted in 2018 - an immense undertaking in itself. He leaves behind an incredible legacy for current and future members to live up to and honour.
Richard’s loss will be keenly felt for many years to come. His fastidious organising of the trombone music pads, his enthusiastic choreography and impromptu vocals, his love of a dramatic rall (whether written or not), his obscure quizzes, his pedantic obsession with grammar and punctuation, his spreadsheets, his crash-bang-wallop clumsiness, and all those other quirks that made him such a lovable character and much valued member of our band. More than anything we will miss his warmth, his passion, his unquenchable enthusiasm, his musicianship, and his friendship.
The thoughts and condolences of everyone associated with BCB remain with Richard’s loving family and his many friends. We are especially thinking of Richard’s youngest daughter, BCB flautist and our current Chair, Charlotte, at this sad time.
Thank you for everything, Richard. Rest in peace.
- New Musical Director
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Date Posted: Sat, 23 Sep 2023
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 118009925 September 2023
